We are sorry to have to break the news to you, but the global unemployment rate is expected to rise in 2017, meaning that 201 million people will be out of work according to the International Labour Organization’s latest report. If you live in a country with alarmingly high unemployment, you could consider to work abroad — a move that won’t only boost your career, but also your personal growth and success.
Moving abroad for work: You are not alone
People decide to move abroad for many different reasons, but social discontentment and career stagnation are the primary deciding factors. In 2013 the world recorded more than 232 million international migrants, and 207 million of these were of working age.
But where do international job hunters head to? It comes as no surprise that 36 per cent of them live in the high-income regions of the world — Northern America and Northern, Southern, and Western Europe. The Arab States, highly friendly to expat employees, are another attractive destination for the international working forces. Notably, Eastern Europe, South Eastern Asia, and the Pacific aren't especially endorsed by migrant workers.
The people who are actively searching for jobs abroad come mainly from the emerging and developing countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Northern Africa. But a closer look at Europe's turmoil (United Kingdom's vote to exit the European Union, Germany's GDP decrease, Italy's and Portugal's economic stagnation) explains why the working-age population of the prosperous European countries has no reservations to move abroad in search of work opportunities.
Canada and the United States of America
Canadian and American citizens might not be particularly interested in leaving their country, but that's completely understandable when we look at their unemployment rates. Both countries have a stable unemployment rate while there's a balance between job positions and job seekers — making them popular destinations among foreign workers.
The Arab States
The gender disparities in the Arab States are persistent — the unemployment among women is 13 per cent higher than among men, and it's common even for well-educated women to not be hired. Likewise, young groups are exposed more to unemployment, and their achievements in education don't necessarily lead to a working position. However, foreigners, who compose the 80 per cent of private sector employment (World Economic Forum, 2014), are gladly received in these countries, and their contracts come along with hefty benefits.
If unemployment at home, low pay, bad management, and limited growth opportunities are totally demotivating you, don't lower your expectations. There might be need for your skills, experiences, and abilities somewhere else — in a foreign country. With thorough preparation, some guidance, and luck, you may land the job of your dreams in a country that is ready to host your ambitions.
