GENEVA – A new report warns that the rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) could disproportionately impact women in the workforce. The research, released by the International Labour Organization (ILO), finds that female-dominated occupations are almost twice as likely to be exposed to the technology compared to male-dominated fields.
Women at Higher Risk of Automation
Across countries with available data, approximately 29 per cent of jobs predominantly held by women are exposed to GenAI, compared to just 16 per cent of jobs held by men. The risk is even more pronounced when considering high-automation scenarios, where 16 per cent of female-dominated occupations face the highest exposure, versus only 3 per cent of male-dominated occupations.
This disparity is linked to occupational segregation, with women heavily represented in roles like secretaries, receptionists, payroll clerks, and accounting assistants – positions involving routine tasks easily automated by GenAI. Men, conversely, are more often employed in sectors like construction and manufacturing, where automation is more challenging.
Unequal Access to AI Opportunities
Whereas GenAI is projected to create jobs in technology-intensive sectors, women remain significantly underrepresented in these fields. In 2022, women comprised only about 30 per cent of the AI workforce, a slight increase of 4 percentage points since 2016. They are also underrepresented in broader STEM fields, including engineering and software development.
The report emphasizes that GenAI’s impact isn’t solely about job losses. It also has the potential to alter job quality, potentially intensifying workloads or reducing worker autonomy. Though, responsible design and implementation could also lead to improved working conditions and productivity.
“The impact of generative AI on women’s jobs is not predetermined,” stated Janine Berg, a senior economist and co-author of the report. “With the right policies, social dialogue and gender-responsive design, we can avert reinforcing existing discrimination.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GenAI?
GenAI is generative artificial intelligence, a type of technology reshaping the world of perform with the potential to boost productivity, support job creation and improve job quality.
Which countries are most affected?
In several economies, more than 40 per cent of women’s employment is exposed to GenAI, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, and small island developing States in the Caribbean and the Pacific.
Is job quantity likely to be affected?
The ILO stresses that the most widespread impact of GenAI is likely to be on job quality rather than job quantity.
As GenAI continues to evolve, will proactive policies and inclusive design be enough to mitigate the risks and ensure a more equitable future of work for all?
