Leveraging AI for productivity and workers’ empowerment.

 

Compared with previous technological waves, AI can perform cognitive tasks andimpact a far wider range of activities, conceivably affecting 40 per cent of global employment, transforming production processes and business operations. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can bring productivity gains and increase the income of some workers, but also cause others to lose their jobs, reshaping workplace dynamics and labour demand. Moreover, technological advancements are driving automation, shifting value towards capital. However, the use of AI offers significant potential to augment worker capabilities, potentially reversing this trend and empowering workers, if supported by effective policies and strategic implementation. Through case studies, this chapter illustrates how developing countries can overcome obstacles in AI adoption to reap its benefits. It also highlights the need to place workers at the centre of technological transformation, for the inclusive adoption of AI.

Key policy takeaways

The impact of AI on work depends on a complex interplay of automation, augmentation and the creation of new roles. Policymakers should understand these dynamics to ensure the equitable distribution of AI’s benefits and to support smooth workforce transitions. 

The adoption of AI in developing countries can be accelerated by redesigning AI solutions around locally available infrastructure; utilizing and combining new sources of data; lowering skill barriers for AI with simple interfaces; and building strategic partnerships to access essential resources for AI.

 Inclusive AI requires a strong emphasis on workers and their professional growth. This includes empowering them with digital literacy, supporting those transiting to new jobs with reskilling training and enhancing overall capabilities through upskilling programmes. Workers should also be involved in the design and implementation of AItools for an integration into workspaces that addresses their needs and preserves meaningful human roles. 

Governments should promote human-complementary AI technologies through increased R&D funding, strategic public procurement and targeted tax incentives. Improving labour market opportunities and establishing clear career development pathways can mitigate the risk of brain drain.