Education, skills and the intensity of labour demand : a comparative study of EU countries

Abstract

PURPOSE: The labour market plays a key role as one of the strategic elements of the modern economy. Its appearance and functioning are changing under the influence of increasing globalisation, and its importance is mainly due to the presence of human capital. The main objective of this study was to analyse the intensity of labour demand in selected countries.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The availability and comparability of statistical data made it possible to calculate an indicator of labour demand intensity according to the educational level of employees according to the ISCED classification and their level of qualification according to the ISCO-08 classification. The research covered 24 of the 27 EU countries.

FINDINGS: The components of the ISCO-08 classification for tertiary education were characterised by higher variability. The intensity of labour demand in the group of people with tertiary education was characterised by an upward trend. The results obtained allow us to conclude that the labour market for tertiary graduates was characterised by a higher intensity of labour demand irrespective of the level of the ISCO-08 classification of occupations. Those with secondary education were more exposed to negative fluctuations in the labour market.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The research carried out allows for a better understanding and analysis of the labour market situation, in particular the relationship between labour demand and the qualifications and skills that employees possess.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article contributes to the development of knowledge on the functioning of the contemporary labour market, which is undergoing a continuous process of transformation under the influence of globalisation and the development of advanced technology. It explains the relationship between one's education and qualifications and the intensity of labour demand in selected European Union countries.