AI Could Eliminate Up to 5% of Jobs in Latin America, Study Finds
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AI could eliminate up to 5% of jobs in Latin America, study finds
SANTIAGO, July 31 (Reuters) - Between 2% and 5% of jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean are threatened by artificial intelligence (AI) and at risk of being fully automated, a report by the International Labor Organization and the World Bank said on Wednesday. According to the study, women and younger workers in formal sectors face greater risks of their tasks being done by generative artificial intelligence, a potential burden on workers in what is already one of the world's most unequal regions due to low-paid jobs in the widespread informal economy. However, "gaps in digital infrastructure and other inequalities could hinder the potential impacts of generative AI in the region," said the report. Overall, between 26% and 38% of jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean could be exposed to generative AI and impacted by it in some way, according to the data. On the other hand, the research stated that there are also benefits that could be brought by AI, as it could improve the productivity of between 8% and 14% of jobs, particularly in the urban, education and formal sectors, and among higher-income earners. (Reporting by Juana Casas; Editing by Aida Pelaez-Fernandez and Sandra Maler)
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AI could eliminate up to 5% of jobs in Latin America, study finds
By Juana Casas SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Between 2% and 5% of jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean are threatened by artificial intelligence (AI) and at risk of being fully automated, a report by the International Labor Organization and the World Bank said on Wednesday. According to the study, women and younger workers in formal sectors face greater risks of their tasks being done by generative artificial intelligence, a potential burden on workers in what is already one of the world's most unequal regions due to low-paid jobs in the widespread informal economy.
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A recent study by the Inter-American Development Bank reveals that artificial intelligence could potentially eliminate up to 5% of jobs in Latin America, with varying impacts across different countries and sectors.
AI's Impact on Latin American Job Market
A new study by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has shed light on the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the job market in Latin America. The research suggests that AI could eliminate up to 5% of jobs in the region, raising concerns about the future of employment in various sectors
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.Varying Effects Across Countries
The study reveals that the impact of AI on jobs is not uniform across Latin American countries. Uruguay appears to be the most vulnerable, with up to 15% of its jobs at risk of being replaced by AI. On the other hand, Guatemala seems to be the least affected, with only 1% of jobs potentially at risk
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.Sectoral Disparities
The research highlights significant differences in the potential impact of AI across various sectors of the economy. Office and administrative support roles are expected to be the most affected, with approximately 46% of jobs in this category at risk of being replaced by AI. Conversely, education, training, and library occupations are projected to be the least impacted, with only about 1% of jobs at risk
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.Gender and Educational Implications
The study also points out that the impact of AI on employment may have gender-specific implications. Women in the region could be disproportionately affected, as they often occupy roles that are more susceptible to automation. Additionally, the research suggests that individuals with higher levels of education may be better positioned to adapt to the changing job market brought about by AI
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.Economic Opportunities and Challenges
While the potential job losses are concerning, the IDB study also highlights the economic opportunities that AI could bring to Latin America. The technology has the potential to boost productivity and create new job opportunities in emerging fields. However, the region faces challenges in harnessing these benefits, including the need for significant investments in digital infrastructure and education
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Policy Recommendations
In light of these findings, the IDB emphasizes the importance of proactive policies to address the challenges posed by AI. The bank recommends that Latin American countries focus on improving their digital infrastructure, enhancing education and training programs, and implementing policies to support workers who may be displaced by AI technologies
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.Global Context
The potential impact of AI on jobs in Latin America aligns with global trends and concerns about the future of work. As AI continues to advance, policymakers, businesses, and educational institutions worldwide are grappling with the need to prepare for a rapidly changing job market and ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed equitably across society
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