Stakeholders stress the need to protect workers’ rights in AI-driven jobs, calling for fair wages, job security, and ethical working conditions.
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]takeholders stress the need to protect workers’ rights as AI continues to reshape industries.
At an International Labour Organisation (ILO) conference, they emphasised that human labour should not be sacrificed for automation, calling for collaboration between employers and workers to ensure fair wages, job security, and ethical conditions in AI-driven roles.
At a recent tripartite conference titled ‘Advancing Social Justice in the Era of the Knowledge Economy and Artificial Intelligence,’ stakeholders emphasised the urgent need to protect workers’ rights as artificial intelligence transforms industries.
Also read: UN experts call for global cooperation on artificial intelligence governance
Organised by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the conference focused on the future of human labour in an increasingly automated world.
Stakeholders highlighted that human labour should not be replaced by automation without consideration of its effects on social inclusion and economic equity.
They called for stronger collaboration between employers and workers to ensure that AI-driven jobs uphold standards of decent work, including fair wages, job security, and ethical working conditions.
ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo underscored the potential of AI to reshape the workforce but stressed the need for safeguards.
He advocated for workers and employers to be actively involved in designing and implementing AI technologies.
Houngbo proposed three strategies: identifying in-demand skills, promoting adult learning, and protecting workers’ rights through social dialogue.
Adding to the conversation, Nigerian IT expert Samuel Konwea stated that AI could significantly boost Nigeria’s economy by enhancing innovation and productivity.
However, he warned that its adoption must be managed through robust policies to prevent deepening inequalities.
Konwea urged prioritising investments in digital infrastructure and skills training, especially in underserved communities, to ensure the benefits of AI are shared equitably.
Furthermore, Konwea stressed the need for a clear regulatory framework that addresses data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical AI use.
He argued that well-managed AI adoption could not only drive economic growth but also create a more inclusive digital economy. Ethical governance, he said, should align AI with Nigeria’s socioeconomic goals to benefit all citizens.
Source: Read more at gazettengr.com
