Europeans aren’t ready for the job onslaught that AI’s impact will bring.
Demis Hasabis, founder of Google’s DeepMind, just shared his views on the prospects of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and how it is likely going to shape employment prospects.
When we look at the EU specifically, it’s looking even more dramatic:
- AI is already reshaping Europe’s job market. Recent data shows that 34% of European jobs are at risk of automation displacement, with sectors like accommodation, food services, and retail facing the highest exposure.
- The skills gap is real and growing. Only 39% of European employees have received formal AI training, compared to 52% in the U.S. This lack of structured upskilling means most European workers are unprepared for the rapid changes ahead. (Looking for AI workshops? Check Influence Builders)
- Worker anxiety is widespread. More than two out of three European employees fear job losses due to AI, with 68% expecting fewer employees will be needed as AI systems become more established.
- Job creation is happening, but not where it’s needed most. Employment growth is strongest in roles highly exposed to AI, while jobs less likely to be automated (often manual or service roles) are shrinking as a share of the workforce.
- Without immediate investment in continuous, formal AI training and reskilling, the continent’s workforce will struggle to adapt, and the gap with global competitors, especially US and China (and Middle Eastern ones!) will only widen
What is your organization doing to keep up..?
cc David Timis
This was originally posted on Andras Baneth's LinkedIn account.