A report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) highlights future prospects related to the rise of
A nuanced view of the impact of AI
In light of the debates surrounding the impact of AI on employment, this report counters the alarmist view often propagated by the media. Instead of trying to predict a future where millions of workers would be left behind, the WEF argues that a transformation of the very nature of jobs is underway. With a forecast of 170 million new positions created against 92 million eliminated by 2030, the job curve is clearly upward.
Sectors in transition
The study is based on the analysis of data from over 1,000 companies, employing a total of 14 million people worldwide. The results show that a majority of them plan to realign their activities thanks to AI. In fact, 40% of companies anticipate a reduction in their workforce due to the automation of tasks through AI. However, two-thirds of them plan to hire AI experts, highlighting the growing need for specialized skills.
The skills of tomorrow
The profiles sought by employers by 2030 will primarily be related to three strategic areas: AI and big data, cybersecurity, and technology culture. This change will impose new skills and a rapid adaptation of current workers. The WEF report emphasizes that 86% of companies anticipate a radical transformation of their activities thanks to AI over the next decade.
Human-machine collaboration
Contrary to the idea of a straightforward replacement of workers by technology, the report suggests rather an approach of human-machine collaboration. Indeed, 77% of surveyed companies plan to launch training programs to help their employees use these new technologies, while 70% intend to hire AI specialists to create innovative tools. Moreover, 62% are actively searching for employees already skilled in the use of AI.
Towards a universal basic income?
As the debate on the future of work progresses, some voices have emerged proposing solutions such as the establishment of a universal basic income. This initiative has been supported by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, who highlighted the need for financial security for every citizen in a world where a significant portion of work could be automated. Experiments are already underway to test the viability of this approach.
The report from the World Economic Forum emphasizes a promising future where artificial intelligence will generate new positions while requiring adaptations within sectors. By constructively embracing AI, companies and workers can explore all the opportunities this technological revolution may offer.
