AI Poses a Greater Threat to Women in the Workforce: ILO Study Reveals Alarming Gender Gap Predictions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, but its impact is not gender-neutral. A recent study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) has revealed that women are significantly more vulnerable to job displacement due to AI-driven automation compared to men. The report highlights that women are three times more likely than men to lose their jobs to AI, with clerical roles—traditionally dominated by women—being the most at risk. This alarming trend has sparked a global conversation about the need for equitable AI policies to mitigate its gendered impact on the workforce.

Behind the Numbers: Why Women Are More at Risk

The ILO's groundbreaking study utilized an innovative index to assess the likelihood of job displacement due to AI. The findings revealed that 10% of jobs held by women in high-income countries are at high risk of automation, compared to just 3.5% of jobs held by men. The disparity is largely attributed to the prevalence of women in clerical and administrative roles, which are highly susceptible to automation due to their repetitive, rule-based nature.

Senior economist Janine Berg emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding of AI's impact, stating, "What we need is clarity and context. This tool helps countries assess potential exposure and prepare their labor markets for a fairer digital future." The study underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the gendered implications of AI-driven automation.

Beyond Clerical Work: The Expanding Reach of AI

While low-level clerical jobs are the most vulnerable, the study also highlighted the growing risk to higher-skilled roles. Positions in finance, software development, and media—traditionally seen as secure—are increasingly exposed to AI-driven automation. This is due to the digitization of tasks and the ability of AI to perform complex, repetitive functions.

Marek Troszyński, co-author of the study, noted, "This index helps identify where AI is likely to have the biggest impact, enabling countries to better prepare and protect workers." The findings suggest that even women in high-paying, specialized roles are not immune to the disruptions caused by AI.

The Gendered Future of Work

The ILO report paints a concerning picture of the future of work, where AI could exacerbate existing gender disparities in employment, pay, and career progression. While some roles—such as cleaning, dentistry, and performing arts—remain relatively insulated from AI, the jobs most at risk are predominantly held by women.

This imbalance could widen the gender gap in the labor market, making it imperative for policymakers to address the issue. The ILO has called for collaboration between governments, employers, and labor organizations to develop strategies that harness AI’s potential while ensuring inclusivity and equity.

Technology Isn’t Neutral: Policy Must Address Bias

The ILO’s findings underscore a critical truth: AI is not inherently neutral. It reflects and amplifies existing societal biases. Without deliberate intervention, the automation revolution could perpetuate and even deepen gender inequality in the workforce.

To mitigate these risks, the ILO advocates for policies that prioritize equitable access to reskilling and upskilling programs. By investing in education and training, countries can empower women to transition into roles that are less susceptible to automation.

Conclusion

The rise of AI presents both opportunities and challenges for the global workforce. While it has the potential to enhance productivity and efficiency, its uneven impact on women underscores the need for equitable policies. By addressing the gendered implications of AI-driven automation, we can ensure that technological progress does not come at the expense of gender equality.