Abstract

In the nineties, labor market policies gained momentum worldwide due to changes in productive structure and adjustments in the formal sector. The emergence of informal employment led governments to allocate resources to mitigate income loss and promote job creation. These policies are closely related to the economic and social context of each country, encompassing measures in the economic, social, and institutional domains. As they opened up to international competition, strategies shifted towards adapting training and support for displaced workers, replacing passive unemployment benefit programs with active policies focused on providing opportunities. In this article, a qualitative systematic review of employment policies was conducted. Scientific evidence published was thoroughly analyzed using the PRISMA method, employing a descriptive narrative approach. It was found that the employment situation in Ecuador presents significant challenges, with a low percentage of Ecuadorians in full employment and limited correlation between occupational status and educational level. It is necessary to promote productive jobs, improve working conditions, address informality, and diversify strategies to boost the economy. Although policies have been formulated and responsible entities established, differentiated and targeted policies are required to reduce unemployment, along with an equitable and comprehensive approach that considers training, equal opportunities, and combating the informal economy.