From a labor perspective, it has been an important year in terms of artificial intelligence (AI). Workers have now wrested a seat at the table in the AI discourse. This is a major breakthrough and a result of tremendous efforts by numerous people, from workers’ rights scholars to labor activists. Yet, it’s important to ask the question – will it be enough?
AI is rapidly transforming industries and automation is already displacing millions of workers. Automation is a long-standing issue that only continues to grow in terms of its scope as AI tech grows more powerful and comprehensive. This is why workers have now taken a major leap forward in pressing for better rights.
As of now, unions are on the cusp of playing an important role in the AI sphere, pressuring policymakers and employers to protect the labor rights of those affected by this tech. Moreover, the focus of this vocal push is to ensure that workers get a fair share of the benefits that the AI revolution can bring.
The hope is that unions will be able to protect workers from a range of hazards related to the increasing prevalence of AI. These can include job losses, workplace safety, or a lack of control over the terms and conditions of contracts. Unions should also be able to look out for workers in terms of getting paid fairly and being able to set basic work conditions, such as reasonable hours of work and healthcare.
At the same time, it is important for unions to make sure that AI does not lead to a further acceleration of economic inequality.AI has the potential to benefit just a few powerful players, and it is essential for unions to make sure that the wealth generated by AI is shared fairly.
All in all, workers have finally been given a seat at the AI table – a major victory of sorts for those in the labor movement. However, the work isn’t over yet. Union workers must ensure that workers get the full benefits of the AI revolution, and that the wealth generated is shared fairly. Only then can we say that the workers have won in the end.