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Pandemic Issues

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Research

Widening inequality: Effects of the pandemic on jobs and income

This report focuses on the overall impact of the pandemic, as well as more specific experiences such as lost hours of work, employment or income. It also looks at who was more likely to receive one or more of the emergency support benefits provided by the government, and how helpful these benefits have been.
Person sitting at a table with computer screen showing video conference call
Research

New Working Arrangements

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a rapid rise in the number of Canadians who are teleworking. While for many the transition has been positive, and a significant number of workers and employers indicate an interest to continue teleworking arrangements post-pandemic, there are inequalities in access and ability to telework. It is urgent that society responds in ways that will chart a path forward as the pandemic continues to unfold.
Close up of hands typing on a laptop
Research

Digital Infrastructure for the Post-Pandemic World

This report examines the key components of Canada's essential digital infrastructure system, highlights worrying inequalities that exist within this system, and offers recommendations on how to quickly reduce some of the most glaring obstacles that prevent many of those who would benefit the most from accessing training, education and employment opportunities digitally from doing so.
Two colleagues
Research

How to Forecast Skills in Demand: A Primer

This paper analyzes three approaches to forecasting in-demand skills that equips individuals and organizations to make sound decisions in training and employment development.
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Research

Job Polarization in Canada

Job polarization is one of several trends — including automation, offshoring and the growing gig-economy — that were already being examined when COVID hit. As Canadian policymakers start to consider how to build back the economy after the pandemic, it makes sense to consider and address the problems created by polarization.
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Research

Skills for the Post-Pandemic World Series

The Future of Work continues to be a major area of focus for the Future Skills Centre and our partners at the Public Policy Forum and at the Diversity Institute.
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In the Media

Working from home is here to stay — and for some Canadians, that’s a big problemexternal link icon

April 12, 2021 — Toronto Star, written by Heather Scoffield
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News Release

On the home front: Remote work may widen inequality in Canada

Many people are managing to work from home, Environics Institute survey shows, but parents of young children, newcomers and young workers face greater challenges.
Woman working online.
Research

Yesterday's Gone: Exploring the future of Canada's labour market in a post-covid world.

In this report, we explore a broad range of trends with the potential to impact Canada’s labour market over the coming decade—many of which have been accelerated, disrupted, or created by COVID-19