Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a warning sign, is it reasonable to harbor concerns about AI displacing jobs across Europe?
In the ever-evolving landscape of the European labor market, AI is making a significant impact, reshaping industries and creating new opportunities.
According to a study by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP), there is an increased demand for digital roles despite the rise of AI. Companies are seeking niche specialists within high-skilled jobs, looking for individuals who can bring something that AI cannot—skilled expertise.
AI is automating about 20% of customer service roles in Germany, potentially eliminating around 30% of traditional jobs. This shift is driving approximately 19% growth in AI-related occupations. However, it's leading to a shift from routine tasks to higher-value roles requiring reskilling in AI competencies.
The impact on young and entry-level workers is particularly pronounced. Since late 2022, job opportunities for this demographic have decreased by up to 32%, while demand grows for experienced workers and digital skills through 2035.
Despite this, only 15% of EU workers have taken AI-focused training. This underscores the need for more flexible, industry-specific courses to meet the skills gap challenge.
Critical thinking and cybersecurity analysis are also important skills expected of workers, according to the same study. In healthcare, learning how to use AI tools for workflow automation is increasingly important.
Employers are not just looking for traditional AI competencies. A study by Adam Tsakalidis, a skills intelligence and foresight expert with CEDEFOP, found that AI competencies are sought after in both expected domains like AI engineering and unexpected domains like authors, writers, and translators.
The EU's new AI Act includes measures to boost AI literacy across the workforce. However, there is variation in the number of hours worked across different regions in the EU, with some regions having higher rates of long working hours.
For individuals concerned about how AI could change their jobs, continuous learning and awareness about AI is key. Young people are more likely to see employment growth in fields less exposed to risk, such as nursing, industrial labor, or retail.
Some countries in the EU are moving faster than others in boosting AI literacy, such as Spain and Poland. Ulrich Zierahn-Weilage, associate professor of economics at Utrecht University, notes that those in high-skill positions are more likely to adapt successfully to technological changes, boosting their productivity and income.
However, it's important to be aware of job scams when looking for a new job. There may be an increase in fake AI job posts. Effective use of AI tools is the most important skill expected of workers, according to a study by German engineering company Bosch.
In conclusion, while AI is reshaping the European labor market, it also presents opportunities for workers to develop new skills and adapt to higher-value roles. The key lies in continuous learning, awareness, and a focus on developing the human skills that AI cannot replicate.
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