The development of artificial intelligence (AI) will impact 40% of jobs worldwide, particularly in advanced economies, the director general of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said.
“Globally, 40% of jobs will be affected. And the more qualified the job is. Therefore, in advanced economies and some emerging markets, 60% of jobs will be affected,” explained Kristalina Georgieva.
In an interview with the FrancePresse news agency (AFP), she explained that the impact would not necessarily be negative, but could also lead to “more income”.
The data comes from a report published by the IMF ahead of the World Economic Forum meetings in Davos, which begin this Monday (15) in the Swiss Alpine resort.
The document warns that AI could worsen wage inequality and harm the middle class in particular, while already highincome workers could see their salaries rise “more than the share” of productivity gains from this technology.
“It is certain that there will be an impact,” Georgieva said, noting that AI could eliminate some jobs and improve others. The director argued that the priority should be helping affected workers and “sharing productivity gains.”
According to the report, Singapore, the US and Canada are the countries best prepared to integrate AI so far.
“We need to focus on the lowestincome countries,” stressed the IMF director general, who expressed concern about the risk of school dropouts in the poorest countries.
“We need to act quickly so that they can take advantage of the opportunities that AI offers. The real challenge will be to put aside the fears associated with the industry and focus on how we can achieve the greatest possible benefit for everyone,” said Georgieva.
She says elements that can boost productivity are “urgently” needed as global growth slows.
“AI can be scary, but it can also be a great opportunity for everyone,” he noted.
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