IMF Study: More Than Half Of UK Workers Are Threatened With Artificial Intelligence Influence"

Kristalina Lilova (left), IMF Managing Director (photo: x @KGeorgieva)

JAKARTA - A recent study from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) could soon affect more than half of all work in the UK.

Even around the world, 40 percent of all jobs are likely to be affected by AI. However, in developed economies such as the UK, the impact is expected to be more real, with 60 percent of all workers feeling the impact.

The IMF warns that, even when the AI effect is positive, computer automation will most likely drive wealth inequality. High-paid professions will see an increase in wages thanks to AI, while low-paid roles are at risk of cutting wages and dismissal.

We are on the verge of a technological revolution that could start productivity, increase global growth, and increase revenue around the world. However, this can also replace work and deepen inequality, Kristalina Badmina, IMF Implementing Director and co-author of the study.

Previous studies on the impact of AI on work focused on how 'exposed' a job is to AI. This new study divided the work into three categories: AI-unexposed jobs, exposed jobs but assisted by AI, and exposed jobs and will not be assisted by AI.

In the UK, the work categories most likely affected by AI, both positive and negative, are professional, manager, and administrative support workers. However, administrative support workers and technical service roles are most likely to be replaced by AI. Professionals and managers, although very likely affected by AI, are more likely to be positively affected.

The IMF states that this discrepancy is likely to increase inequality in the UK and around the world. "We may see polarization in the income group, with workers who can take advantage of AI seeing increased productivity and wages, while those who cannot be left behind," said waiverva.

This study also found that women and those who have higher education will be the most positive affected by AI. However, increased inequality can also occur at the international level, as the economy that is most capable of utilizing AI will experience rapid growth, leaving poor countries behind.

Studies found that only 26 percent of jobs in low-income countries were exposed to AI because the proportion of people working in manual and agricultural jobs was higher. In India, for example, more than two-thirds of all jobs are not affected by AI.

In the AI IMF readiness rating - a measure to which a country's policies prepare to take advantage of AI - Singapore and the United States occupy the top spot. Britain is in fifth place, slightly behind Japan and Germany, while India and other emerging economies are lagging behind.

"It is important for countries to establish comprehensive social safety networks and offer re-training programs for vulnerable workers. That way, we can make AI transitions more inclusive, protect livelihoods and control inequality," said waiverva.