Recent findings from the United Nations’ International Labour Organization (ILO) reveal a startling trend: artificial intelligence (AI) poses a greater threat to women’s jobs compared to men’s. The report, published in May 2025, sheds light on how AI is poised to transform the job landscape, particularly in high-income countries. Here, we delve deeper into the implications of these findings.
The Numbers Behind the Threat
According to the report, approximately 9.6% of traditionally female jobs are set to be radically transformed due to AI innovations. In contrast, only 3.5% of jobs typically held by men are projected to experience similar changes. This disparity highlights a significant risk for women employed in roles that AI technologies are likely to replace or augment.
- Transformation of Clerical Jobs: Roles such as secretarial positions are particularly vulnerable as AI increasingly takes over administrative tasks.
- Media, Software, and Finance: Jobs in these sectors are witnessing rapid changes as generative AI expands its capabilities.
Understanding the Shift
While the ILO report emphasizes that not all jobs will be entirely automated, it suggests that a significant portion of tasks within many occupations could swiftly be taken over by AI.
The report notes: “We stress that such exposure does not imply the immediate automation of an entire occupation, but rather the potential for a large share of its current tasks to be performed using this technology.” This statement signals a shift towards a workforce where roles will be adapted rather than wholly eliminated.
The Need for Action
Considering these findings, the ILO urges governments, employers, and labor organizations to reevaluate how AI can enhance workplace productivity and job quality:
- Collaborative Efforts: Stakeholders must collaborate to create strategies that leverage AI without displacing vulnerable job roles.
- Upskilling Workers: Investing in employee training and education programs will be vital to prepare the current workforce for the changing job demands influenced by AI.
- Supportive Policy Frameworks: Governments should establish policies that ensure a balanced integration of AI technologies in workplace environments.
As AI technology continues to evolve, its implications are far-reaching, particularly for women in the workforce. Recognizing and addressing the unique challenges that arise from this technological shift is crucial. The ILO report serves as a timely reminder of the need for proactive measures in safeguarding jobs traditionally held by women while embracing the potential benefits AI has to offer.
