The integration of artificial intelligence into the modern workplace is rapidly reshaping the labor market. A new study by the Inter-American Development Bank reveals that 60 million jobs in the United States and Mexico will be affected by AI within the next year. In the US, AI will impact the jobs of 43 million workers, while in Mexico, 16 million jobs will feel the effects.
These numbers are projected to increase to 60 million and 22 million, respectively, over the next five years. By the end of a decade, 70 million jobs in the US and 26 million in Mexico will be affected. Eric Parrado, chief economist at the IDB and co-author of the study, emphasizes that these estimates indicate vulnerability rather than job losses.
“There’s an opportunity to leverage affected jobs,” he says. The IDB index calculates AI’s potential impact on over 750 professions across one, five, and ten-year timelines. The study suggests that 980 million jobs worldwide will be influenced by AI within a year, affecting 28% of the global workforce.
This figure may rise to 38% in five years and 44% in ten. “This is an industrial revolution growing exponentially. We must adjust quickly, hence our research, to send a message of caution,” Parrado states.
Ai’s impact on jobs discussed
The goal is to ensure AI brings benefits rather than negative consequences. The study recommends investments in education and retraining programs focused on complementary skills like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
Women and low-skilled workers are identified as particularly vulnerable groups. Women are more affected (40%) by task automation compared to men (38%), particularly as they hold more administrative and support roles. Similarly, workers with less education and training, as well as those with lower incomes in the US, are more vulnerable.
In Mexico, both working-class and middle-class jobs are at risk. “AI could exacerbate global inequality, which is why quick action is necessary,” Parrado emphasizes. Occupations requiring subjective criteria, such as teaching and firefighting, are less susceptible to AI.
However, jobs like telephone operators and telemarketing are highly vulnerable, with up to 92% of positions potentially affected. The IDB study aims to guide public and private policies to counteract AI’s negative effects. It underscores the importance of education and training programs, improved social safety nets, employment insurance, and subsidies to aid workers.
Governments are also urged to adapt educational curriculums to include AI to prepare future generations. In conclusion, AI represents a significant shift in the labor market, and proactive measures are crucial to ensure the technology benefits society rather than exacerbates existing inequalities.
