Sep 15, 2024, 12:00 AM
Sep 15, 2024, 12:00 AM

AI"s impact on 60 million jobs in US and Mexico by year-end

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Highlights
  • The Inter-American Development Bank estimates that 43 million jobs in the U.S. and 16 million in Mexico will be affected by AI within a year.
  • Women and low-skilled workers are particularly vulnerable, with 40% of women in the U.S. likely to be impacted.
  • Immediate action is needed to adapt educational programs and improve social safety nets to mitigate the effects of AI on the labor market.
Story

A recent study by the Inter-American Development Bank reveals that the introduction of artificial intelligence will impact 43 million jobs in the United States and 16 million in Mexico within a year. This significant change is not solely about job losses; rather, it highlights the vulnerability of many occupations to automation. The research indicates that nearly half of the global workforce, approximately 980 million jobs, will be affected by AI technology, suggesting a transformation akin to the industrial revolution. The study emphasizes that women and low-skilled workers are particularly at risk, with 40% of women in the U.S. likely to be affected compared to 38% of men. The impact is expected to be felt across various income levels, with lower-income individuals in the U.S. and both working-class and middle-class jobs in Mexico facing the most significant changes. Certain fields, such as telephone operations, may see up to 92% of positions affected. To address these challenges, the report advocates for educational reforms that incorporate AI into school curriculums and the establishment of robust social safety nets. This includes improved employment insurance and subsidies to support workers transitioning to new job markets. The urgency of these measures is underscored by the potential for AI to exacerbate global inequality if proactive steps are not taken. In conclusion, the findings call for immediate action from governments and institutions to prepare for the impending changes in the labor market, ensuring that workers are equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by artificial intelligence.

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