The new development agenda must reflect a closer coordination of enabling policies at global, regional and national levels, striking a better balance between economic and social measures, grounded in the respect of rights, social justice and equity. Linkages with financial markets, skills, technology and innovation are central. Shifts will be made in the way we experience work: there’ll be winners and losers at the job market in the transition to a green economy, as some sectors will create jobs, some will disappear and many will transform.

A critical dimension in this transformation is brought by the linkages made between macroeconomic industrial policies, education skills and employment. Integrated policies for training, vocational training, placement and apprenticeship will be needed in order to direct young generations towards productive employment and avoid skills mismatches and labour shortages.

Employment has become critical in the aftermath of the global crisis and will remain a central concern toward 2015 and beyond. The global framework for development should act as an anchor in setting global norms and guidelines for policy action, taking into account national economic and social issues, but also global concerns with partnerships, trade and migration.

Looking forward in anticipation of future crises, participants stressed the need to strengthen resilience through labour market institutions and other systems, including social protection floors.