Mapping the Evidence on Decent Work (2022–2025): An Evidence Gap Map of Recent Empirical Research

Purpose: This study presents an evidence gap map (EGM) of recent empirical survey-based research on decent work published between 2022 and 2025. The aim is to systematically visualize where empirical evidence has accumulated and to identify persistent knowledge gaps across key dimensions, populations, regions, outcomes, and methodological approaches, thereby informing future research agendas and evidence-informed policy development. Design/methodology/approach: A systematic mapping review was conducted following established guidance for evidence gap maps. Searches were performed in major bibliographic databases using a focused strategy to identify studies explicitly engaging with the decent work construct. Empirical quantitative studies based on survey methods were screened against predefined eligibility criteria. A total of 214 studies published between January 2022 and 2025 were included and coded using a structured framework covering decent work dimensions, population characteristics, geographic context, methodological design, and outcome variables. Evidence gap maps were constructed using matrix-based visualizations to display evidence density and gaps. Findings: Despite a substantial increase in publication volume since 2022, the evidence base remains unevenly distributed. Empirical research continues to concentrate on a limited subset of decent work dimensions and individual-level outcomes, while dimensions related to social dialogue and employment security receive comparatively little attention. Vulnerable worker populations—including persons with disabilities, domestic workers, and gig economy workers—remain critically underrepresented. Methodologically, cross-sectional designs predominate, with longitudinal and multilevel approaches still relatively scarce. Geographic coverage is similarly uneven, with research activity concentrated in a limited number of regions. Research limitations/implications: By systematically mapping recent empirical survey-based evidence, this study highlights persistent misalignments between theoretical ambitions, policy priorities, and empirical practice. The findings provide a structured basis for prioritizing future research and for aligning psychological research on decent work more closely with equity-oriented policy objectives. Originality/value: This study is the first evidence gap map focusing specifically on recent empirical survey-based research on decent work. By applying a rigorous EGM approach to post-2021 literature, it offers a structured overview of this segment of the evidence base and identifies priority areas where empirical knowledge remains limited.