The International Labour Organisation urged governments worldwide to adopt lifelong learning as a core economic and social policy to address rapid labour market changes driven by artificial intelligence, digitalisation, the green transition, and demographic shifts. The call came in a report released in Geneva on May 5, 2026.

The ILO stressed that lifelong learning extends beyond workforce employability, saying it supports decent work, innovation, social inclusion, and active citizenship. The agency described the approach as essential to sustainable development and resilient economies.

Governments must invest in accessible, continuous education systems to ensure workers can adapt to technological and environmental changes, the report said. The ILO will present its recommendations to member states for policy integration in upcoming labour forums.