A recent report from the United Nations’ International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Poland’s National Research Institute (NASK) highlights a significant gender gap in the impact of AI-driven job automation. According to the study, women are nearly three times more likely than men to have their jobs automated, especially in higher-income countries where 9.6% of women’s jobs are at high risk compared to 3.5% of men’s.
The report points out that clerical and administrative roles, predominantly held by women, are particularly vulnerable to AI automation. In the US, for example, women accounted for between 93% and 97% of secretarial positions from 2000 to 2019. Although AI is unlikely to completely eliminate these jobs, it will automate routine tasks, requiring workers and employers to prepare for shifting job responsibilities.
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Experts stress the importance of viewing AI as a tool for augmenting human work rather than replacing it. However, a gender gap exists in AI adoption, with women using AI tools 25% less than men due to ethical concerns and fear of judgment at work. This underscores the need for inclusive workplace cultures that encourage equal access to AI technologies.
As AI reshapes the global workforce, ensuring women have the support and opportunity to adopt new technologies will be vital in protecting their roles and promoting workplace equality.
