The Teaching and Learning International Survey of 2013 (TALIS)—representing the views of teachers and principals in lower secondary schools from 34 jurisdictions around the world—tells us a great deal about the conditions for teaching in different countries today and what these may mean for the future of the teaching force and the quality of teaching. Perhaps in part as a function of recent economic downturns, shortages of personnel and materials are noticeable in many countries. Equitable teacher distribution is also problematic in some countries. In 13 jurisdictions, experienced teachers were much less likely to work in schools with more disadvantaged students. We found a significant relationship between class sizes and teacher shortages across countries. One of the most surprising findings from TALIS was that on average, less than a third of teachers (31%) indicated that the teaching profession is valued in their society. Across TALIS jurisdictions, the proportion of teachers who have completed a teacher education program is very high. On average, 90% of teachers had completed a program. Across TALIS jurisdictions, the proportion of teachers who have completed a teacher education program is very high. On average, 90% of teachers had completed a program. Collaborative and effective professional learning opportunities were found to be associated with teachers’ practices, especially with respect to those that encourage what are commonly referred to as “21st century skills” — problem solving, inquiry, critical thinking, and collaboration, for example.