THE POWER OF PEOPLE, PLACES & FIRMS
Reading Time: 3 minutesPowerful forces are reshaping the world of work. Ageing populations, the transition to green energy, rapid digitalisation, and uneven connectivity are already redrawing the economic landscape. AI tools promise a way out – automating routine tasks, optimising schedules, even predicting maintenance needs before breakdowns. But for local leaders, a dilemma looms: will AI ease labour shortages or put people out of work – and their region?
Reading Time: 3 minutesItaly has always been a land of entrepreneurs. SMEs are crucial to the economic growth of Italy, accounting for around 80% of employment and generating more than 65% of the nation’s added value. But what about the next generation? How are Italian universities preparing young people to innovate? How are they training entrepreneurs to align economic goals with social and environmental responsibility? What is Italy’s next step?
Reading Time: 4 minutesPortugal shows that the green transition in textiles is both a climate imperative and a business opportunity to reshape production, secure jobs, and meet global demand for sustainable fashion. With SMEs at the core, progress must come from the bottom up, backed by coherent top-down policies. As the fashion cycle accelerates, so too does its environmental footprint – and the need to change our approach.
Reading Time: 3 minutesIn OECD countries, around 1 in 8 young people fall between the two and become “NEETs” – those neither working, studying, nor receiving training. In Latin America, it is 1 in 4 young people. But NEETs are not just a problem. They represent an opportunity – a vast pool of talent, full of skills and enthusiasm. With the right support, they can become a powerful and positive force for change.
Reading Time: 5 minutesEach year, many Central American migrants return to the same challenges they left behind: scarce jobs, limited prospects and exclusion. But in parts of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, local actors are helping turn return into a fresh start.
Reading Time: < 1 minuteHow can we turn great ideas into lasting social impact? In this episode of the OECD Podcast, Shayne MacLachlan speaks with Jeroen Jutte, Head of the European Social Fund Coordination Unit at the European Commission.
Reading Time: 5 minutesSpecial Economic Zones (SEZs) have evolved beyond tax incentives to boost regional growth, focusing on infrastructure, digital connectivity, and talent. From Ireland’s Shannon Free Zone to China’s industrial hubs, their success hinges on strong governance and a place-sensitive approach. The challenge now is ensuring SEZs drive inclusive regional development.
Reading Time: 4 minutesMalmö, Sweden, transformed from deindustrialization to a vibrant tech hub through innovation and inclusivity. Minc plays a crucial role in supporting startups, showcasing successful collaboration, funding access, and community diversity as keys to economic growth.