The OECD published Education at a Glance 2026 on 29 September, with teacher shortages as its special focus. The report also brings together comparable information on educational attainment, enrolment, financing and the organisation of education systems.
Its overview cautions that staffing pressures differ across countries, locations and subjects. Vacant positions are only one part of the picture: the use of staff without standard qualifications and long absences can also reveal pressure on the workforce.
The OECD discusses pay and working conditions alongside professional autonomy, relationships and recognition. It also considers routes into teaching for people changing careers.
Reading the report
Readers comparing systems should consult the relevant country notes and reference years. An international average can provide context, but it does not describe every institution or local labour market.