OECD workshop on Preparing for the Future of Work in Canada

23 July 2020 | 9:30 – 11:00 EST (Toronto time) |15:30 – 17:00 CEST (Paris time)

What's the issue?

COVID-19 has led to a labour market shock in Canada and the immediate government response has been unprecedented in scale and scope. Between February and April 2020, employment fell by 15.7% (or 3 million jobs), exceeding by far declines observed in previous labour market downturns. As of May 2020, employment ticked up marginally by 290 000 jobs. The unemployment rate has continued to increase standing at 13.7%, the highest rate ever recorded. The crisis has affected some provinces more than others.

As the impacts of the COVID-19 continue to play out, there is the possibility that it could speed up the adoption of automation in the workplace. Consumer preferences may turn to automated services, while firms may look to expand their use of technology to pandemic proof their operations and reduce the number of workers that have to physically be at work. Some places and people are better positioned to be resilient in the face of accelerated technological change.

During this webinar, the OECD will launch a new report on Preparing for the Future of Work in Canada. The report features new estimates on the potential local impacts of automation across Canada, highlighting which provinces and cities are most at-risk. As economies begin to re-open, it also highlights actions needed to prepare people, places and firms for the labour market upturn.

The webinar will provide an opportunity to learn about the findings of the new OECD report, while also hearing from a number of top thinkers and practitioners about threats and opportunities facing Canada from COVID-19 and the future of work.

Webinar Highlights & Replay

Click here to access the OECD Review on Local Job Creation: Preparing for the Future of Work in Canada PowerPoint presentation delivered by Jonathan Barr