BUSINESS
How automation will change our careers forever
April 30, 2019 - Artificial intelligence, robotics and globalisation are rapidly changing the workplace, opening up new markets and increasing productivity. But young, low-skilled, part-time workers face being left behind.
Modern technological advances are rapidly changing the workplace, and nations must act quickly to prepare for the effects or face increasing social and economic tensions, says the OECD.
In the “Employment Outlook 2019” report, it claims 50 percent of jobs could disappear or be drastically altered in the next 20 years due to automation – saying the pace of change is going to be startling.
Safeguards and training methods developed over many years to protect workers are now struggling to keep up with meteoric changes in the workplace. It is believed that some workers will benefit as technology opens new markets, but young people with lower levels of education, in low paid jobs, will be left vulnerable.
The OECD recommends revamped training regimes and urges governments to greatly improve protections for employees in the “grey zone” – a hazy area of employment and self-employment that often means workers lack rights.