Generative AI poised to transform one⁤ in four jobs worldwide

Updated May ⁢26, 2025

Generative artificial⁢ intelligence is rapidly changing the global job market, with the potential to transform nearly one in four jobs, according to a new⁤ study by the International Labour Organization.While AI offers increased⁣ efficiency, labor organizations are raising concerns⁤ about its impact‍ on⁤ job security and equality.

The ILO report, “Generative AI and Jobs: A⁤ Refined Global Index of Occupational Exposure,” analyzes the rate of job transformation ⁢due to AI integration ⁢and aims ⁤to help policymakers⁣ prepare for potential economic ⁢risks. The ILO urges employers to⁢ explore how AI tools can boost productivity and job satisfaction.

Pawel Gmyrek, ILO Senior Researcher and lead author, saeid the study combines human insight, expert review,​ and generative AI models to help countries assess risk and ⁤respond effectively. Janine Berg, Senior Economist at the ILO, emphasized the need for clarity and context to prepare labor markets for⁤ a fairer digital future.

The report distinguishes between job augmentation and automation,⁤ suggesting that human labor will remain essential. Though, workers are likely to see their responsibilities change as AI takes on tasks with greater ⁣efficiency.

Gmyrek told IPS that the main risk is not the “end of work,” but the rapid and uncontrolled transformation of certain occupations. He stressed the challenge‍ of managing this transformation to ensure job quality and prevent widening social, gender, and ⁣income inequalities.

The report ‍indicates ⁢a significant increase in the risk of‌ automation compared to the ILO’s 2023 edition, with roughly one in four workers⁢ worldwide now at‍ risk. Higher-income countries face a greater risk⁤ of widespread automation.

Clerical jobs are‌ most exposed to automation, as‌ AI systems can efficiently handle tasks like filing, scheduling, and record management. Industries with existing technology integration, such as media,⁤ software, and finance, ​are also experiencing significant changes.

Gmyrek noted that while most jobs still require​ human input, the ‍extent of change depends on existing digitalization. Software progress, already closely tied to AI, may evolve further,​ while administrative support in less digitalized offices could face greater disruptions.

Specialized positions in maintenance, installation, repair, construction, food production, and personal care have the lowest average risks of AI⁢ exposure. ⁤Physical labor roles ⁣have lower exposure scores compared to clerical positions,⁤ according⁤ to the North⁤ Carolina Department of Commerce, labor, & Economic Analysis Division (LEAD).

The ILO report finds that nearly all countries face equal risk of job augmentation⁢ from AI,⁣ suggesting the potential to harness AI’s efficiency without ‌harming workers. Though, higher-income countries ⁣have the highest average rates of exposure to AI automation, at around 5.5 percent, compared to 0.4 percent in lower-income countries.

Women are disproportionately affected by​ automation due ‍to their higher representation‍ in ⁣high-exposure jobs. The ILO estimates that 9.6 percent of female jobs are high-exposure, compared to 3.5 percent among men.

the ILO emphasizes the importance of social protections for workers, as human labor remains indispensable for specialized practice, ethical considerations, and ​creativity. Without thes considerations and efforts ⁢to integrate new tasks,even partial automation could lead to a ⁢decline in job demand in ‍high-exposure fields.

What’s next

Policymakers and corporations must prioritize a smooth and fair transition⁤ that harnesses ⁢AI’s efficiency while valuing human labor. The focus should‌ be on workforce evolution and integration of⁣ new tasks ‍to mitigate potential job losses ‌and ensure a balanced future.