UN says AI more likely to assist workers than take jobs

A recent report from the United Nations (UN) suggests that fears of an AI takeover are unwarranted and that AI will in fact help workers perform better in their positions.

Generative AI and jobs: A global analysis of potential effects on job quantity and quality by the UN’s International Labour Organisation (ILO) suggests that companies that utilise generative AI and automation are “more likely to be complemented rather than substituted”.

This means that while job functions may shift with the introduction of AI in the workplace, people won’t be replaced – they’ll just need to learn to work alongside AI and leverage it.

Clerical work was seen as the category that was most exposed to AI. Tasks like data entry, filing documents, and sorting information use AI more than other job functions. Companies are clearly seeing the benefit that AI can bring to mundane day-to-day tasks.

Countries with higher incomes were more likely to have AI. The report found that in high-income nations, 5.5 per cent of total employment was exposed to AI in the workplace. Meanwhile, in low-income countries, just 0.4 per cent of the workforce was exposed.

However, the ILO notes that the potential for AI implementation is almost equal across all countries. With proper policies and government support in place, more areas around the world would be able to keep up with the technological transformation.

AI is set to impact women more than it is men. ILO revealed that female jobs were more than twice as likely to be affected by automation. This is due to the high proportion of women who work in the clerical and administrative space.

According to the report, the benefits of AI will be greatest for countries that effectively utilise and regulate its use. Policies that welcome the change and support those affected by it will thrive in the future of work.

With teachers beginning to see the benefits AI has in the future of work, and more incorporating these skills into lessons, Australia’s views on AI seem to be turning around. Employers may benefit by providing employees with the chance to use AI and pick up skills. In doing so, leaders can ensure their workforce is prepared for this digital transformation.

The authors of the ILO report concluded “outcomes of the technological transition are not pre-determined. It is humans that are behind the decision to incorporate such technologies and it is humans that need to guide the transition process”.

Jack Campbell

Jack is the editor at HR Leader.