# 3 Work

Dave Adamson

This section examines the world of work in Wales. Its key objective is to develop an understanding of the relationship between economic change in Wales and the patterns of work and employment which have emerged in the period since the Second World War. The Welsh economy has evolved rapidly during this period and working life has changed with it. Industries and activities which once dominated the Welsh economy have virtually disappeared and economic globalisation and technological innovation have brought new patterns of work and employment. Major changes have occurred in the structure of the workforce and in the working conditions that people experience.

This section considers the shape and nature of the contemporary economy in Wales and the patterns of work that emerge from it. An understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the Welsh economy is essential in order to make sense of much of the social, cultural and political life in Wales. One of the primary tasks of the Welsh Government is to provide a strong economic footing for the achievement of many of its social and cultural objectives. However, there are key structural weaknesses in the Welsh economy that present major challenges to Wales achieving affluence and prosperity comparable to the wider UK experience.

OpenLearn - Contemporary Wales
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