The Annual Global Report (AGR), published in May 2025, is an annual report prepared by the International Bar Association (IBA) Global Employment Institute (GEI) highlighting general international trends in human resources law. This is the 12th AGR and is based on responses from lawyers in 53 countries, including Chris Van Olmen in Belgium. The 12th AGR covers trends in human resources law during the calendar years 2024 and 2023. Each AGR builds on the historical perspective of previous editions.
As well as highlighting the impact of AI, the Report addresses a number of societal and worldwide concerns. Global conflicts such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the renewed outbreak of the Israel-Palestine conflict in October 2023 significantly impacted labour markets. These conflicts not only placed psychological and emotional stress on affected employees, particularly those with direct ties to the regions, but also created tensions within workforces as differing opinions on the conflicts surfaced and challenged workplace cohesion. These wars also affected the flow of migration, with many people fleeing their homeland.
Additionally, absenteeism due to stress and mental health issues has risen, prompting employers worldwide to take proactive measures to support employee wellbeing in these areas. Initiatives range from psychological support programmes and mental health leave to flexible work arrangements and additional paid leave to avoid negative impacts on workplace culture and efficiency, if left unaddressed. However, despite a rising understanding of the significance of mental health in the workplace, in many of the countries surveyed there remains a lack of significant legal advances.
Areas highlighted in the Report of which lawyers working in the employment and other related sectors should be aware include the:
- Rise in retirement age and improved parental leave
- Need to align workplace policies with human rights protection
- Importance of data protection and privacy.
More information on the report can be found in the official press release of the IBA. The report can be opened and downloaded via the link below.