How Will Technology Change the Future of Labor?

The world of work and study is going through great change. Technological advances are opening up new jobs and eliminating the need for people whose skills are no longer useful. According to a new study published by the International Labor Organization's Global Commission on the Future of Work, this new reality, which has already begun to deeply affect the business and working world, brings with it many uncertainties.

The International Labor Organization acknowledges the fact that artificial intelligence, automation and robotics will cause job losses, and some skills will be obsolete. However, the organization estimates that new technologies, and especially initiatives to make economies more compatible with the environment, will create new jobs for millions of people.

Change is closer than tomorrow

He believes that technological developments bring many opportunities. However, it is emphasized that people should use new technologies for the working world, not allowing technology to determine the future shape of the working world.

Pointing out that change is inevitable with rapid technological developments, scientists underline that change will happen whether people want it or not, and say, “We should prefer to move forward rather than be behind the change. Let's follow the developments that will lead us closely so that we can shape the working environments in the way we want.”

A human-centered working order

The 27-member commission established by the International Labor Organization argues that a human-centered approach should be at the center of the business world. The general director of the organization notes that it is vital for the future of labor to place the human element at the center of the debate on change in an unprecedentedly changing world.

Robot firefighters used in firefighting exercise Robot firefighters used in firefighting exerciseRobot firefighters used in firefighting exercise“People, families and countries around the world are trying to understand how to cope with the challenges posed by developments that change the nature of labour, and how to seize the new opportunities that arise,” the scientists say.

What recommendations does the World Labor Organization make for adapting to technology?

As a result of its 15-month work on adapting to technological developments, the Commission makes ten recommendations to guarantee the sustainability of labor. Some of these recommendations are to protect workers' rights, to create safe work environments, and to give workers a wage that allows them to live comfortably.

The Commission also proposes the creation of social security programs from birth to old age. Combating gender discrimination in the working world is also among the suggestions.

Continuing vocational education throughout life and updating work skills frequently throughout working life are also ways to gain resilience to technological change.

Scientists point out that future employment rates will not only be determined by the speed of technological developments, but government policies and the choices made by politicians will play a major role in this. According to the findings of the commission, it will be possible for humans and robots to live and work in harmony as long as humans are in control of the application of technology in the world of work.