POLICY BRIEF: CAREER GUIDANCE IN THE PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICES WORLDWIDE

THE ROLE AND IMPACT OF CAREER GUIDANCE IN PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

JOINT PUBLICATION: WORLD ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICES (WAPES) AND INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND PUBLIC POLICY (ICCDPP)

This two-page policy briefing provides the rationale for the provision of career guidance within the public employment services (PES) worldwide. Based on a global survey of such services in 2024, undertaken with support of the University of Derby, the briefing describes:

-the focus of career guidance within the PES

-emerging trends within such provision

-challenges in providing effective guidance

-success factors in effective provision.

The briefing outlines the policy implications of the survey results:

–Embedding career guidance in labour market policies, strategies, and legislation

-Ensuring sustainable funding and infrastructure

-Investing in the professional development of PES staff

-Promoting inclusive services

-Partnership working.

This is a first in a series of policy briefs for career guidance that ICCDPP intends to produce and publish.

November 24, 2025 / WAPES, Disadvantaged groups, Employed adults, Older adults, Unemployed adults, Ensuring quality, Young people at risk, Expanding access to guidance, Funding career guidance, ICCDPP Blog, Training and qualifications, Policy Briefs and Commentaries, International Organisation Recommendations, Guides and Resources for Policy Makers and Delivery Managers