The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is undeniably reshaping the global landscape of work, presenting both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges for workers worldwide. The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), a global federation representing millions of workers, has taken a proactive stance, advocating for stronger worker involvement in decisions concerning AI adoption in workplaces. Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, the ITUC emphasizes the crucial role of trade unions in ensuring that this technological revolution benefits all workers, not just a select few. The organization argues that the future of work, while inevitably shaped by AI, is not predetermined, and that the manner in which this technology is managed will determine its ultimate impact on workers’ lives and livelihoods.
The ITUC’s call for greater worker participation in AI-related decisions stems from the understanding that AI systems, if implemented without proper oversight, can exacerbate existing inequalities and undermine fundamental labor rights. The organization stresses that technological progress must go hand-in-hand with the protection and promotion of democratic trade union rights, including collective bargaining and social dialogue. These rights are essential for ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared equitably, and that workers have a voice in shaping the future of their work. The ITUC warns against the unchecked use of AI in employment decisions and worker surveillance, advocating for robust regulations to prevent exploitation and violations of workers’ rights. They argue that AI-driven decision-making processes should be transparent, accountable, and subject to human oversight, especially in areas that impact employment, wages, and working conditions.
A key concern for the ITUC is the potential for AI to be used to undermine the freedom of association and the right to organize, fundamental pillars of worker empowerment. The organization emphasizes that AI should not be employed as a tool to suppress worker voices or circumvent established labor protections. Instead, AI should be leveraged to enhance working conditions, improve productivity, and create new opportunities for workers. The ITUC advocates for a human-centered approach to AI implementation, ensuring that technology serves the needs of workers rather than the other way around. This approach requires active worker participation in the design, development, and deployment of AI systems, ensuring that these systems are aligned with the needs and aspirations of the workforce.
The ITUC’s advocacy extends to the international arena, with a push for stronger global regulations to govern the use of AI in the workplace. The organization is calling for a legally binding International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention on Decent Work for the Platform Economy, a critical issue on the agenda of the upcoming ILO International Labour Conference. This convention aims to establish minimum labor standards for platform workers, a rapidly growing segment of the workforce often characterized by precarious employment conditions and a lack of traditional labor protections. The ITUC views this convention as a crucial step towards ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are shared fairly and that platform workers are afforded the same rights and protections as workers in traditional employment relationships.
The ITUC’s stance underscores the growing global concern about the potential impact of AI on labor markets. Without proper governance and worker involvement, AI could lead to widespread job displacement, wage stagnation, and increased surveillance, exacerbating existing inequalities and creating new forms of precarious work. However, the ITUC maintains that with appropriate safeguards and the active participation of trade unions, AI can be harnessed to create a more equitable and prosperous future of work. The organization envisions AI as a tool that can enhance working conditions, improve productivity, and create new opportunities for workers, provided that its implementation is guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and human oversight.
As the AI revolution gathers pace, the ITUC insists that governments and employers must prioritize workers’ rights and ensure that technological transformation does not come at the expense of worker well-being. The organization advocates for a collaborative approach, bringing together governments, employers, and trade unions to develop frameworks and regulations that ensure the responsible and ethical development and deployment of AI. The ITUC believes that by working together, these stakeholders can harness the transformative potential of AI while mitigating its risks and ensuring that the future of work is one that benefits all. This collaborative approach is essential for navigating the complex challenges posed by AI and creating a future of work that is both innovative and inclusive.
