Sustaining careers in high-volatility environments: A three-wave longitudinal study from the Global South

Purpose This study advances sustainable career theory by examining the longitudinal impact of chronic economic uncertainty on career health, happiness and productivity. Unlike previous research focused on transient crises, we investigate how persistent macroeconomic instability in a Global South context (Tunisia) depletes career resources over time. Design/methodology/approach Using a three-wave longitudinal design (N = 450), we test a moderated-mediation model integrating Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and Sustainable Career Theory. We analyze the lagged effects of uncertainty (T1) on sustainability (T3) through career adaptability (T2). Findings Results demonstrate that chronic uncertainty acts as a primary resource-depletion force. However, organizational career support (OCS) functions as a critical institutional “buffer,” sustaining employee adaptability even in volatile markets. Originality/value This study responds to recent calls to decentralize career research from Western contexts, offering a new “resource-preservation” framework for careers in transition economies.