Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
AI Impact Disproportionately Affects Women’s Jobs, UN Report Finds
A new report from the United Nations’ International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) poses a greater threat to jobs typically held by women than those held by men, particularly in affluent nations. The research highlights the potential for significant shifts in the labor market as AI technology advances.
Vulnerability of Female-Dominated Roles
The ILO study indicates that 9.6% of jobs traditionally occupied by women are susceptible to transformation due to AI, compared to only 3.5% of jobs predominantly held by men. This disparity arises as AI increasingly automates administrative and clerical functions, impacting roles such as secretarial positions.
Transformation, Not Elimination
The report emphasizes that while AI will significantly alter job functions, complete elimination is less likely. A substantial degree of human interaction will still be necessary for numerous tasks, suggesting a shift in job responsibilities rather than outright redundancy.
Sectors at the Forefront of AI Disruption
Several sectors are experiencing rapid changes driven by generative AI’s expanding capabilities:
- Media
- Software
- Finance
AI’s Capacity to Perform Tasks
“We emphasize that such exposure does not imply the immediate automation of an entire occupation, but rather the potential for a large share of its current tasks to be performed using this technology,” the report stated.
Call to Action
Enhancing Productivity with AI
The report urges governments, employers, and workers’ organizations to consider strategies for leveraging AI to boost productivity and improve job quality, while mitigating potential negative impacts. This includes proactive planning and training initiatives to prepare the workforce for the evolving landscape of work.