AI and the future of work

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has raised many questions and concerns about its impact on the future of work. How will AI affect the demand and supply of labor, the skills and education required, and the quality and security of work? Will AI create more jobs than it destroys, or vice versa? Will AI augment or replace human workers, or both?

These are not easy questions to answer, as AI is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that interacts with various economic, social, and political factors. However, some trends and scenarios can be identified based on the current state and potential of AI.

One way to classify the impact of AI on work is to distinguish between automation and augmentation. Automation refers to the process of replacing human tasks or jobs with machines or systems that can perform them faster, cheaper, or better. Augmentation refers to the process of enhancing human capabilities or productivity with machines or systems that can assist, complement, or collaborate with them.

According to a report by McKinsey, about half of all work activities globally could be automated by 2055 using current technologies, but this could happen up to 20 years earlier or later depending on various factors. However, only 5% of occupations could be fully automated, while 60% could see at least 30% of their activities automated. This suggests that most workers will need to adapt to working alongside machines rather than being replaced by them.

The report also estimates that by 2030, AI could create 250 million new jobs globally, mostly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and social services. However, AI could also displace 400 million workers, mostly in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and transportation. This implies that there will be a significant mismatch between the demand and supply of labor, skills, and education.

Therefore, it is crucial for workers, employers, educators, and policymakers to prepare for the transition to a more AI-driven economy. This could involve:

• Reskilling and upskilling: Workers will need to acquire new skills or upgrade their existing skills to remain relevant and competitive in the labor market. These skills could include technical skills related to AI and digital technologies, as well as soft skills such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration.
• Lifelong learning: Workers will need to adopt a mindset of continuous learning and development to keep up with the changing demands and opportunities of work. This could involve accessing various formal and informal learning platforms and resources, such as online courses, podcasts, blogs, mentors, and peers.
• Career mobility: Workers will need to be flexible and adaptable to changing career paths and opportunities. This could involve exploring different roles, sectors, or locations that suit their interests, abilities, and goals.
• Social protection: Workers will need to have access to adequate social protection systems that can provide them with income security, health care, and other benefits in case of unemployment, illness, or injury. This could involve strengthening existing social safety nets or creating new ones that are more inclusive and responsive to the needs of workers.
• Social dialogue: Workers will need to have a voice and representation in the decision-making processes that affect their work conditions and rights. This could involve engaging with employers, unions, governments, and other stakeholders to negotiate fair and equitable terms of work.

AI is undoubtedly a powerful and disruptive force that will transform the future of work. It can bring many benefits for workers, such as increased productivity,