Is Technology Promoting Job Exclusion? Balancing Innovation with Employment
The conversation around technology and job exclusion is both timely and pressing. While it’s true that technology has redefined traditional roles, causing certain jobs to become obsolete, it's an oversimplification to view technology solely as a force of exclusion. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2023 reveals a complex picture: by 2027, we expect to see a net decrease of 14 million jobs, with a 23% labor market churn. Yet, this same technological progression is anticipated to create 97 million new roles, revealing a transformative rather than a diminishing effect on the workforce (1).
The OECD's findings present a less dire prediction than often publicized, showing that only 9% of jobs are at high risk of being automated when considering the heterogeneity of tasks within occupations. This suggests that the blanket fear of a jobless future due to automation may be overstated, as the unique elements of many jobs are difficult to replicate with technology (2).
In response to these challenges, the European Commission's Digital Education Action Plan has been a beacon of progress, setting strategic priorities for a high-performing digital education ecosystem and stronger digital competencies among citizens. This plan is a testament to the proactive measures being taken to ensure that the workforce evolves alongside technological advancements (3).
The private sector, too, is playing a pivotal role. The Microsoft Global Skills Initiative has reached out to over 30 million individuals, providing them with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital economy. This initiative underscores the potential for industry leaders to mitigate technology-induced job displacement through education and upskilling (4).
To understand the breadth of technology's impact on jobs, we must consider the global context. Countries around the world are at various stages of technological adoption and face different challenges. For example, automation poses a greater risk to jobs in some economies than others, influenced by factors like workplace organization, previous technology investments, and the education level of the workforce. Addressing these disparities requires tailored approaches that consider the specific needs and capabilities of each country.
Sustainability efforts are also reshaping the labor market. As businesses invest in green transitions and ESG standards, new roles are emerging in the sustainability sector. AI and Machine Learning Specialists, along with Renewable Energy Engineers, are among the fastest-growing jobs today, demonstrating that technology and sustainability are powerful job creation engines (1).
The narrative is not about technology versus labor but about harmonizing technological adoption with human skills. It's about fostering an environment where technology augments human capabilities and where education and policy reforms help individuals transition into new roles. Only by embracing this dual approach can we ensure that technology acts as a bridge to a more inclusive and diverse workforce, rather than a barrier.
In conclusion, while technology does pose challenges to traditional employment, it equally offers opportunities for inclusion, growth, and development. It is the collective responsibility of businesses, governments, and individuals to harness the positive aspects of these changes, ensuring that as we advance technologically, we also progress socially and economically.
References:
(1) World Economic Forum, The Future of Jobs Report 2023:
The Future of Jobs Report 2023 | World Economic Forum
(2) OECD Social, Employment and Migration Working Papers, The Risk of Automation for Jobs in OECD Countries: A Comparative Analysis:
(3) European Commission, Digital Education Action Plan:
(4) Microsoft Global Skills Initiative:
Microsoft launches next stage of skills initiative after helping 30 million people.
