A recent report reveals that women are disproportionately affected by job transformations due to generative AI, with nearly 10% of female workers in high-income countries in roles at high risk of automation, compared to just 3.5% of men.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and NASK index analyzed nearly 30,000 job descriptions, identifying administrative and clerical positions, such as secretarial roles, as particularly vulnerable to automation.

To ensure a balanced future of work, the report emphasizes the necessity of expanding digital infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to technology, especially in regions with limited digital resources.

Experts stress the importance of creating inclusive environments in workplaces that empower all employees, particularly women, to confidently adopt and experiment with AI technologies.

The ILO report advocates for policies that facilitate the digital transition, ensuring that workers can adapt to evolving roles while maintaining job quality.

The report urges decisive action from governments and organizations to enhance access to digital skills and training, particularly for women and those in clerical roles, to support a smooth transition to generative AI.

Harvard Business School's Rembrand Koning suggests viewing AI as a tool for augmentation rather than a threat, highlighting its potential to automate routine tasks and enable workers to engage in higher-paying activities.

While the report acknowledges that AI may replace certain jobs, it emphasizes that many roles will still require human involvement, indicating a shift in job functions rather than outright elimination.

Inclusive social dialogue is deemed essential for integrating generative AI into the workplace, allowing workers to voice their concerns and contribute to discussions on implementation to prevent widening gender gaps.

The report warns that partial automation could lead to reduced job quality for women, with stagnating wages and limited advancement opportunities if roles are not redesigned or workers retrained.

Research indicates a significant gender gap in AI usage, with women utilizing AI tools at a rate approximately 25% lower than men, often due to ethical concerns and fear of judgment.

Regions like Europe and Central Asia exhibit the highest gender disparities in job exposure to AI, while areas with limited digital access, such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, face potential instability from AI automation.