Generative AI enhances jobs, affects clerical roles — ILO

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — The International Labour Organization (ILO) study suggests that Generative artificial intelligence (AI), like chatGPT, will more likely supplement jobs than replace them. 

In its new study, ILO said that the focus of Gen AI’s impact would be on enhancing job quality, particularly in work intensity and autonomy.

Clerical positions face the highest risk of technological disruption, with about a quarter of their tasks highly exposed and more than half at medium exposure. Meanwhile, managerial and professional tasks are less affected, with only about a quarter facing medium exposure.

The study also found differences in automation exposure based on economic development. Around 5.5% of employment in high-income countries is potentially exposed to automation.

On the other hand, the risk of automation concerns in low-income countries is only at 0.4% of employment. 

Regardless of income level, the potential for AI to augment jobs remains consistent worldwide, suggesting potential growth opportunities for developing nations with the right strategies.

Moreover, ILO revealed that Gen AI has a significant gender-based impact. Female-dominated clerical roles in middle and high-income countries put women at twice the automation risk.

However, the authors note that the “outcomes of the technological transition are not pre-determined.”

“It is humans that are behind the decision to incorporate such technologies and it is humans that need to guide the transition process,” they added.