It is important to note that while automation will change 50% of jobs, it is not expected to eliminate more than 5%. Rather than being replaced by computers, most workers will instead work alongside rapidly evolving machines. The future of work will see a shift in demand away from office support positions, machine operators, and other low-skill professions – and towards technology professionals such as computer engineers and information communication technology (ICT) specialists.
- In 10 years time, 50% of jobs will be changed by automation – but only 5% eliminated.
- 9 out of 10 jobs will require digital skills.
- Young, low-skilled and vulnerable people – all need help with upskilling.
Over the next 10 years, 1.2 billion employees worldwide will be affected by the adaptation of automation technologies and AI. This is equal to 50% of the world economy and will disrupt US$14.6 trillion in wages. The magnitude of this digital transformation may be alarming, especially as it is projected to disproportionately affect vulnerable, low-skills populations. But in reality, automation will change the nature of work more than it displaces workers. Therefore, it is necessary for us to understand and address the challenges of automation, in order to build towards a sustainable and more equitable future of work.
