Briefing - The debate on AI and jobs - 09-07-2026
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Artificial intelligence (AI) was already transforming the world of work when the advent of generative AI (GenAI) and its rapid uptake accelerated the process. Today, it is widely recognised that GenAI can both significantly enhance and degrade human skills, aBriefing - The debate on AI and jobs - 09-07-2026
Artificial intelligence (AI) was already transforming the world of work when the advent of generative AI (GenAI) and its rapid uptake accelerated the process. Today, it is widely recognised that GenAI can both significantly enhance and degrade human skills, and cause labour market disruptions by transforming or displacing jobs.AI's impact on jobs depends on the degree to which these are exposed to AI, and is often estimated by the potential of individual tasks to be automated. Reports distinguish between augmentable, automatable and unaffected jobs.Expectations about AI's impact are evolving. Claims that white-collar jobs will soon be massively replaced by AI are being mitigated by economic research predicting AI's modest macroeconomic effects on productivity and gross domestic product growth. The most likely impact of GenAI is a profound transformation, rather than large-scale destruction, of jobs.Early evidence shows a strong impact on white-collar entry-level jobs and shifting regional labour-market dynamics, as AI's effects are more strongly felt in urban areas and in places where AI-adopting companies are located. Much will depend on the regulatory framework, on organisations' workflow adaptation, and on training people in AI skills.With the recent data on AI use by individuals and enterprises, the European Union (EU) considers AI a defining challenge for its long-term competitiveness. It is adapting its regulatory framework with a view to developing AI talent and, generally, increasing AI skills. Forecasts about how AI and digital technologies could reshape employment in European regions are cautiously positive.To reap AI's benefits and mitigate its negative effects on jobs, societal adaptations are needed. Beyond regulation and supportive policy, these start with training and education, to provide both current and future workers with the necessary skills, and include adapted social protection, social dialogue, and safeguards of workers' rights. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP Read more














