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Bachmann, Ronald, Gökay Demir, Colin Green & Arne Uhlendorff (2026): Technologischer Wandel und Löhne: Die Anpassung der Berufe spielt eine entscheidende Rolle. (IAB-Kurzbericht 01/2026), Nürnberg, 8 S. DOI:10.48720/IAB.KB.2601

Abstract

"Technischer Fortschritt verändert die Arbeitswelt - besonders in Berufen, in denen viele Tätigkeiten leicht automatisiert werden können. In den letzten Jahrzehnten ist der Anteil an Routinetätigkeiten in vielen Berufen deutlich zurückgegangen - häufig zugunsten nicht routine­mäßiger kognitiver Tätigkeiten wie Analysieren, Planen oder Beraten. Dabei verzeichnen Berufe, deren Tätigkeiten sich im Laufe der Zeit stärker an den technologischen Wandel angepasst haben, steigende Löhne. Sie zeichnen sich zudem durch intensivere Weiterbildungsaktivitäten aus. In Berufen, deren Tätigkeitsprofil sich kaum verändert hat, stagnieren die Löhne dagegen häufiger." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Barth, Erling, Marianne Røed, Pål Schøne & Janis Umblijs (2026): Winners and losers when firms robotize: wage effects across occupations and education. In: The Scandinavian Journal of Economics, Jg. 128, H. 1, S. 3-32. DOI:10.1111/sjoe.12593

Abstract

"This paper analyses the impact of robots on workers' wages in the manufacturing sector, with a particular focus on relative wages for workers with different levels of education and in different occupations. Using high-quality matched employer–employee register data with firm-level information on the introduction of industrial robots, we identify the effects of robotization on relative wages within firms. Skilled blue-collar workers with a vocational degree experience a decline in wages when firms introduce robots, while there are only small effects for the other groups of workers. These results suggest that robots are substitutes for tasks undertaken by skilled blue-collar workers in manufacturing, and furthermore that the adoption of robots contributes to a polarization of the labor market and a hollowing out of the wage distribution, rather than to skill-biased technical change." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Benzell, Seth Gordon & Kyle R. Myers (2026): Automation Experiments and Inequality. (NBER working paper / National Bureau of Economic Research 34668), Cambridge, Mass, 26 S., App. DOI:10.3386/w34668

Abstract

"Many experiments study the productivity effects of automation technologies such as generative algorithms. A key test in these experiments relates to inequality: does the technology increase output more for high- or low-skill workers? However, the theoretical content of this empirical test has been unclear. Here, we formalize a theory that describes the experimental effect of automation technologies on worker-level output and, therefore, inequality. Worker-level output depends on a task-level production function, and workers are heterogeneous in their task-level skills. Workers perform a task themselves or delegate it to the automation technology. The inequality effect of improved automation depends on the interaction of two factors: (i) the correlation in task-level skills across workers, and (ii) workers' skills relative to the technology's effective skill. In many cases we study, the inequality effect is non-monotonic --- as technologies improve, inequality decreases then increases. The model and descriptive statistics of skill correlations generally suggest that the diversity of automation technologies will play an important role in the evolution of inequality." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Bergantino, Angela Stefania, Giulio Fusco, Mario Intini & Gianluca Monturano (2026): Digital divide and income inequality: causal evidence from Italian provinces. In: The Annals of Regional Science, Jg. 75, H. 1. DOI:10.1007/s00168-025-01440-z

Abstract

"The digital economy can function either as a catalyst to stimulate economic growth or else as a driver of socioeconomic inequality when its benefits are unevenly distributed. This study investigates the effect of rural digital connectivity on income inequality in Italy. Utilizing NUTS 3 panel data spanning 2014–2022, we conduct a counterfactual Difference-in-Differences approach with continuous treatment intensity to estimate the impact of introducing rural broadband coverage at speeds of 30 and 100 Mbps on multiple measures of income distribution, including the Gini, Theil, and Atkinson indices. The empirical framework incorporates a comprehensive set of socioeconomic controls, as well as provincial and time fixed effects, to account for unobserved heterogeneity and regional path dependencies. Our findings indicate that broadband expansion is significantly associated with increasing inequality, suggesting that access alone does not guarantee inclusive outcomes, particularly in localities characterized by structural fragility and limited human capital. Additional heterogeneity and spatial analyses demonstrate that these inequality effects are more evident in southern provinces and localities with a higher concentration of inner areas, where the digital divide remains more pronounced. These findings accentuate the dual role of digitalization and highlight the necessity of coordinated policy interventions that combine infrastructure investment with digital skills development, institutional capacity-building, and spatially integrated governance strategies." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Gallo, Giovanni & Amparo Nagore García (2026): Retirement decisions in the age of COVID-19 pandemic: are older employees in digital occupations working longer? In: Review of Economics of the Household, S. 1-34. DOI:10.1007/s11150-025-09827-9

Abstract

"This paper investigates the retirement response to the pandemic and to the resulting acceleration in the adoption of new technologies. Using the European Union Statistics of Income and Living Conditions datasets and leveraging the natural experiment of many workers being forced to work from home in Europe during the lockdown, we compare the retirement response of older workers in digital occupations (i.e. more exposed to the accelerated adoption of new technologies) versus non-digital occupations to detect any differences in retirement behaviour, which we interpret as digitalization effects. In addition, we analyze changes in retirement decisions by gender and geographic area. We find that retirement rates increased during COVID-19 in Europe, especially in Mediterranean countries and among women. This trend may be linked to gender occupational segregation. In Mediterranean countries, digitalization increases female retirement, likely due to challenges in balancing digital work and family responsibilities while working from home. In Eastern countries, and to a lesser extent in Northern countries, digitalization leads to postponing retirement among women, likely due to greater gender equality in unpaid work. In contrast, the retirement age for men is less affected by the pandemic with no significant differences between digital and non-digital occupations. This may exacerbate the existing gender gap in labor force participation and pension outcomes." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © Springer-Verlag) ((en))

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Gschwendt, Christian, Martina Viarengo & Thea S. Zoellner (2026): Generative AI and Career Choices. (Working paper / Swiss Leading House 251), Zürich, 52 S.

Abstract

"The economic impact of technological change will critically depend on how future workers invest in their human capital. Yet, little is known about how future workers themselves evaluate and choose their educational and occupational paths in light of emerging technologies. This paper examines how adolescents currently at the school-to-work transition stage value working with generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in their future occupations, and how automation risk and opportunities for continuing education shape these preferences. We field a discrete-choice experiment among a nationally representative sample of over 7,000 Swiss adolescents aged around 15. We find that adolescents generally exhibit an aversion to collaborating with GenAI at work, with females consistently more averse than males. However, preferences are nuanced: adolescents welcome greater GenAI collaboration, provided that GenAI usage levels remain moderate and that it is not accompanied by increases in job-automation risk. Finally, continuing education opportunities in occupations improve attitudes towards working with GenAI across genders. Our results challenge simple narratives of technology acceptance or rejection, revealing that adolescents' willingness to work with GenAI depends on how it is implemented — its intensity, associated displacement risks, and accompanying skill development - rather than the technology itself. Our findings suggest that the way future workers value GenAI collaboration in their career choices critically depends on its intensity and on the interplay with automation risk and AI-related educational opportunities." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Ide, Enrique & Eduard Talamas (2026): The impact of AI on global knowledge work. In: Journal of monetary economics, Jg. 157. DOI:10.1016/j.jmoneco.2025.103876

Abstract

"We analyze how Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes global knowledge work in a two-region world where firms organize production hierarchically to use knowledge efficiently: the most knowledgeable individuals specialize in problem-solving, while others perform routine work. Before AI, the Advanced Economy specializes in problem-solving services, whereas the Emerging Economy focuses on routine work. AI converts compute — which is located in the Advanced Economy — into autonomous “AI agents” that perfectly substitute for humans with a given level of knowledge. Basic AI reduces the Advanced Economy ’s net exports of problem-solving services, potentially reversing pre-AI trade patterns. In contrast, sophisticated AI expands these exports, reinforcing existing trade patterns. Finally, we show that a global ban on AI autonomy redistributes AI’s gains toward lower-skilled workers, while a regional ban — such as prohibiting autonomy only in the Emerging Economy — offers little benefit to lower-skilled workers and harms the most knowledgeable individuals in that region." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Lamperti, Fabio & Davide Castellani (2026): Automation and the risk of labor market exclusion across Europe. In: Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Jg. 77, S. 62-76. DOI:10.1016/j.strueco.2025.12.014

Abstract

"Labor market exclusion represents a major concern in several European economies, particularly affecting highly exposed demographic groups. This paper examines the potential effect of automation technologies on the risk of being locked into protracted unemployment or inactivity, using Labour Force Survey data for the European Union 27 countries and the United Kingdom, between 2009 and 2019. Our study employs repeated cross-sections of individual-level data to compute probabilities of exclusion outcomes due to automation adoption, controlling for several individual, macroeconomic, and region-specific characteristics, and for potential selection mechanisms. Findings highlight that, on average, the adoption of new automation technologies is associated with a higher probability of being inactive. This is consistent with the view that automation may exacerbate job insecurity, psychological discouragement, and detachment from job-seeking. This relationship is heterogeneous across demographic groups, with younger individuals being relatively more affected." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Matsuki, Takashi (2026): Improving the effects of industrial robot adoption on employment, total factor productivity, and real wages in 52 world economies and OECD members. In: Review of world economics, S. 1-32. DOI:10.1007/s10290-025-00626-z

Abstract

"This study investigates the effects of industrial robot adoption in the production process on unemployment rate, employment ratio in manufacturing, and total factor productivity (TFP) growth in 52 countries, and real wage growth in 31 and 20 OECD member countries for 2007–2019. The operating stock of robots per employee significantly impacts these variables; robot adoption lowers the unemployment rate and raises TFP and real wage growth. However, it reduces the employment ratio in manufacturing. In addition, the slight but significant positive contribution of robot adoption is observed only in the 90-percentile (top 10-percentile) of the real wage distribution. Interestingly, workers in the bottom and top tails (10- and 90-percentiles) of the wage distribution asymmetrically benefit from robotization. The industry ratio of value-added improves the labor market by reducing the unemployment rate and raising the employment ratio in manufacturing, TFP growth, and real wage growth. The information and communication technology (ICT) development also positively contributes to the employment ratio in Asia’s manufacturing, TFP growth, and real wage growth." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Menis–Mastromichalakis, Orfeas, George Filandrianos, Maria Symeonaki, Glykeria Stamatopoulou, Dimitris Parsanoglou & Giorgos Stamou (2026): Gender bias in machine learning: insights from official labour statistics and textual analysis. In: Quality & quantity, Jg. 60, H. 1, S. 619-653. DOI:10.1007/s11135-025-02261-0

Abstract

"The interplay between technology and societal norms often reveals a troubling reality: machine learning systems not only reflect existing gender stereotypes but can also amplify and entrench them, making these biases harder to detect and address. This paper adopts an interdisciplinary approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods with recent technological advancements, such as machine learning techniques for textual analysis and computational linguistics, to offer a new framework for understanding occupational gender bias in machine learning. The study is motivated by persistent gender inequalities in the labor market and rising concerns about gendered algorithmic bias, as outlined in the European Commission’s Gender Equality Strategy 2020–2025. Focusing on language translation technologies, the research explores how machine learning may perpetuate or amplify gender stereotypes, aiming to foster more inclusive digital systems aligned with EU strategic goals. More specifically, it investigates occupational gender segregation and its manifestations in various forms of gender bias in machine learning across English, French, and Greek. The study introduces a classification of gender biases in machine learning, providing insights into professional areas needing intervention to address gender imbalances and identifying enduring stereotypical representations in textual data. To support this, statistical analysis is conducted to explore gender variations in occupations over the past thirteen years, using official data and international classifications such as the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO-08). Moreover, gendered occupational distributions are extracted from 200,920 text instances in the three languages, revealing significant discrepancies between official labour statistics and the training data." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Misch, Florian, Ben Park, Carlo Pizzinelli & Galen Sher (2026): Artificial Intelligence and Productivity in Europe. (CESifo working paper 12401), München, 37 S.

Abstract

"The discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) often centers around its impact on productivity, but macroeconomic evidence for Europe remains scarce. Using the Acemoglu (2024) approach we simulate the medium-term impact of AI adoption on total factor productivity for 31 European countries. We compile many scenarios by pooling evidence on which tasks will be automatable in the near term, using reduced-form regressions to predict AI adoption across Europe, and considering relevant regulation that restricts AI use heterogeneously across tasks, occupations and sectors. We find that the medium-term productivity gains for Europe as a whole are likely to be modest, at around 1 percent cumulatively over five years. While economically still moderate, these gains are still larger than estimates by Acemoglu (2024) for the US. They vary widely across scenarios and countries and are substantially larger in countries with higher incomes. Furthermore, we show that national and EU regulations around occupation-level requirements, AI safety, and data privacy combined could reduce Europe's productivity gains by over 30 percent if AI exposure were 50 percent lower in tasks, occupations and sectors affected by regulation." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Mühlbauer, Sabrina & Enzo Weber (2026): Machine learning for labor market matching. In: Machine learning with applications, Jg. 23, 2026-02-03. DOI:10.1016/j.mlwa.2026.100861

Abstract

"This paper develops a large-scale machine learning framework to improve labor market matching using rich administrative data. Matching is defined as a job seeker entering employment in a specific occupational field. We exploit comprehensive employment biographies from Germany, covering individual characteristics and job-related information, to estimate employment probabilities across occupations and generate personalized job recommendations. The contribution lies in demonstrating why machine learning methods are particularly well suited for administrative labor market data and outperform traditional statistical approaches. We compare logit, ordinary least squares (OLS), k-nearest neighbors, and random forest (RF). RF consistently achieves the highest predictive performance. Its advantage is rooted in key methodological properties: RF builds an ensemble of decision trees trained on bootstrap samples, introduces random feature selection at each split, and aggregates predictions through majority voting. This enables RF to capture nonlinear relationships and complex interactions, remain robust in high-dimensional settings, and reduce overfitting — features that are particularly relevant for heterogeneous and imbalanced administrative data. Compared to conventional models, RF better exploits the full informational content of employment histories, especially when estimating on all employment spells rather than restricting the sample to unemployment-to-employment transitions. The sample comprises approximately 55 million spells, representing about 6 percent of the German workforce from 2012 to 2018. Our results suggest that ML-based matching, relative to standard statistical approaches, could hypothetically reduce the unemployment rate by up to 0.3 percentage points, highlighting the practical relevance of RF-based decision support for labor market policy." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © Elsevier) ((en))

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Njekwa Ryberg, Peter (2026): How local labour market skill relatedness and size moderate the impacts of automation. In: Regional Studies, Jg. 60, H. 1. DOI:10.1080/00343404.2025.2598031

Abstract

"This paper examines how local labour market skill relatedness and size moderate the impacts of automation on occupations across Swedish local labour markets. Using administrative data and a spatially explicit risk of automation measure that accounts for regional differences in occupational task contents, it finds a negative association between automation and employment growth and wage income growth for non-metropolitan occupations between 2011 and 2021. Skill relatedness and labour market size mitigate these negative relationships. In contrast, no negative associations are found for metropolitan occupations. Due to their higher shares of non-automatable tasks, they are more resilient to adverse automation effects." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Pouliakas, Konstantinos & Giulia Santangelo (2026): Human-centred digital transitions and skill mismatches in European workplaces. (CEDEFOP working paper series / European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training 2026,01), Luxembourg, 163 S. DOI:10.2801/9894877

Abstract

"New digital and artificial intelligence technologies are fast reshaping skill requirements in the EU labour market, fostering skill mismatches. There are marked concerns about the potentially adverse consequences of automation and AI on employment, as well as the lagging competitiveness of EU economies as individuals’ upskilling or reskilling is failing to adapt. To deepen understanding of how digitalisation is affecting the nature of work and skill mismatches in EU labour markets, Cedefop carried out the second wave of the European skills and jobs survey in 2021. In this special edition of Cedefop’s working paper series, ten original, short contributions have been drafted in which researchers explore in depth, for the first time, the ESJS2 microdata. The publication presents a wealth of focused and robust empirical analyses, covering a wide range of different issues on how the digital transition is affecting jobs, skills and training in Europe." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Scotese, Carol A. (2026): Where Have All the (Boomer) Routine Workers Gone? In: The B.E. Journal of Economic Analysis and Policy, S. 1-44. DOI:10.1515/bejeap-2024-0396

Abstract

"This paper examines the employment outcomes of a cohort of non-college educated individuals who exit employment from occupations most exposed to automation risk. The analysis employs a novel set of granular task measures estimated from the detailed job attributes in the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). The granularity enables a rich characterization of non-routine work and task mobility choices for those without a college degree. The data yield multiple types of interpersonal, decision-making, cognitive, and technical tasks. Employing the granular tasks to analyze the employment outcomes for non-college educated workers who transition out of routine work, this study finds (1) the granular measures detect abstract tasks performed intensively in a range of skill contexts, (2) when exiting routine intensive work, non-college propensity to enter abstract work is just under 65 %, and (3) approximately one-quarter of those entries are into tasks yielding average wage gains for those making that transition." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © De Gruyter) ((en))

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Spencer, David A. (2026): Envisioning the Future of Work: From Ideas to Reforms. In: BJIR, S. 1-11. DOI:10.1111/bjir.70035

Abstract

"Two different theoretical perspectives concerning technology and the future of work are examined. One is linked to mainstream economics, whereas the other is associated with critical (‘post-work ’) discourse. Ideas about work—its nature and impacts on well-being—matter in both perspectives. Indeed, they shape visions of a ‘better’ or ‘ideal’ future. They also influence policy responses to new technology. A critique is presented of the ways that work and its possible futures are understood. This critique is used to develop a different set of ideas about how technology might be harnessed to reduce the burden and raise the quality of work. The ability of ideas to effect reforms in and of work—ideas that have currency now and possible radical alternatives—is also assessed." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Stephany, Fabian, Ole Teutloff & Angelo Leone (2026): AI Skills Improve Job Prospects: Causal Evidence from a Hiring Experiment. (arXiv papers), 46 S. DOI:10.48550/arXiv.2601.13286

Abstract

"The growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has heightened interest in the labour market value of AI-related skills, yet causal evidence on their role in hiring decisions remains scarce. This study examines whether AI skills serve as a positive hiring signal and whether they can offset conventional disadvantages such as older age or lower formal education. We conduct an experimental survey with 1,700 recruiters from the United Kingdom and the United States. Using a paired conjoint design, recruiters evaluated hypothetical candidates represented by synthetically designed résumés. Across three occupations – graphic designer, officeassistant, and software engineer –, AI skills significantly increase interview invitation probabilities by approximately 8 to 15 percentage points. AI skills also partially or fully offset disadvantages related to age and lower education, with effects strongest for office assistants, where formal AI certification plays an additional compensatory role. Effects are weaker for graphic designers, consistent with more skeptical recruiter attitudes toward AI in creative work. Finally, recruiters’ own background and AI usage significantly moderate these effects. Overall, the findings demonstrate that AI skills function as a powerful hiring signal and can mitigate traditional labour market disadvantages, with implications for workers’ skill acquisition strategies and firms’ recruitment practices." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Zeyer-Gliozzo, Birgit, Carolin Kunz, Jakob Schwerter & Martina Brandt (2026): Changing Job Tasks as Risk or Chance for Employees’ Perceived Job Quality? A Longitudinal Analysis. In: Kölner Zeitschrift für Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie, Jg. 78, H. 1, S. 61-86. DOI:10.1007/s11577-025-01043-8

Abstract

"In den letzten Jahrzehnten haben sich Arbeitsaufgaben erheblich verändert, was in erster Linie auf den technologischen Wandel zurückzuführen ist. Einige Tätigkeiten können von Maschinen übernommen werden, während andere an Bedeutung gewinnen. Dies kann sich auf zweierlei Weise auf die Beschäftigten auswirken: Einerseits können veränderte Tätigkeiten die wahrgenommene Arbeitsqualität verringern, beispielsweise durch kognitive Überlastung. Andererseits können Tätigkeitsveränderungen eine Chance sein, beispielsweise durch die Automatisierung unerwünschter Tätigkeiten wie schwerer körperlicher Arbeit. Diese Studie analysiert anhand von Daten des Nationalen Bildungspanels, wie sich Aufgabenänderungen auf individueller Ebene auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit als Maß für die wahrgenommene Arbeitsqualität auswirken. Fixed-Effects-Modelle zeigen, dass weniger manuelle sowie mehr analytische und autonome Tätigkeiten die Arbeitszufriedenheit signifikant verbessern, was auf positive Auswirkungen vergangener Aufgabenänderungen hindeutet. Allerdings beobachten wir auch altersbedingte Unterschiede, wobei ältere Beschäftigte eine geringere Zufriedenheit angeben, wenn sie weniger Routineaufgaben ausführen. Diese Ergebnisse liefern wertvolle Erkenntnisse über die Auswirkungen sich verändernder Arbeitsaufgaben und zeigen Bereiche auf, in denen weitere Forschung und politische Maßnahmen erforderlich sind." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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(2026): OECD Digital Education Outlook 2026: Exploring Effective Uses of Generative AI in Education. (OECD digital education outlook 2026), Paris, 244 S. DOI:10.1787/062a7394-en

Abstract

"Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the educational landscape, beyond teaching and learning. Unlike earlier waves of education technology, much of GenAI is freely accessible and largely used beyond institutional control due to its intuitiveness and versatility. The OECD Digital Education Outlook 2026 analyses emerging research that suggests GenAI can support learning when guided by clear teaching principles. However, if designed or used without pedagogical guidance, outsourcing tasks to GenAI simply enhances performance with no real learning gains. The Outlook highlights the benefits of GenAI as a tutor, partner and assistant, and synthesises experts’ evidence and insights on the design criteria that make it work for education." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Abrams, Leah, Daniel Schneider & Kristen Harknett (2025): New Technology, Older Workers: How Workplace Technology is Associated with Indicators of Job Retention. In: Journal of Aging & Social Policy, S. 1-17. DOI:10.1080/08959420.2025.2523122

Abstract

"Middle-aged and older adults who are employed in precarious, high-strain jobs may face challenges to continued work, risking economic insecurity and poor wellbeing in retirement. Technology in the workplace, an under-studied aspect of work environments, could accommodate aging workers or could add stress to their jobs. This study examines how technology in sales and surveillance at work are related to job satisfaction and planned job exits among approximately 6,000 workers aged 50–69 employed in the low-wage service sector (e.g. retail, pharmacy, grocery, hardware, fast food, casual dining, delivery, and hotel). On-the-job surveillance was related to lower job satisfaction and higher reports of looking for a new job, especially when combined with sanctioning for slow speed of work. However, rewards for speed, and to a lesser extent the use of leaderboards, were associated with higher job satisfaction, demonstrating the potential of technology to enhance the work experience for older employees. The use of sales technologies was not associated with job satisfaction or intentions to look for a new job. These results provide a uniquely detailed portrait of prevailing labor market conditions for aging workers in the service sector and demonstrate how certain kinds of technology matter for older workers ’ employment." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Acemoglu, Daron & Jonas Löbbing (2025): Automation and Polarization. In: Journal of Political Economy. DOI:10.1086/739330

Abstract

"We develop an assignment model of automation. Each of a continuum of tasks of variable complexity is assigned to either capital or one of a continuum of labor skills. We characterize conditions for interiorautomation, whereby tasks of intermediate complexity are performed by capital. Interior automation arises when the most skilled workers have a comparative advantage in the most complex tasks relative to capital, and when the wages of the least skilled workers are sufficiently low relative to both their own productivity and the effective cost of capital in low-complexity tasks. Minimum wages and other sourcesof higher wages at the bottom make interior automation less likely. Starting with interior automation, a reduction in the cost of capital (or an increase in capital productivity) causes employment and wage polarization. Specifically, further automation pushes workers into tasks at the lower and upper ends ofthe task distribution. It also monotonically increases the skill premium above a threshold and reduces the skill premium below this threshold. Moreover, automation tends to reduce the real wage of Workers with comparative advantage profiles close to that of capital. We show that large enough increases in capital productivity ultimately induce a transition to low-skill automation and qualitatively alter the effects of automation—thereafter inducing monotone increases in skill premia rather than wage polarization." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Adolph, Lars, Britta Marleen Kirchhoff & Sara Hamideh Kerdar (2025): Artificial intelligence in work design: unlocking inclusion and overcoming barriers. In: Zeitschrift für Arbeitswissenschaft, Jg. 79, H. 2, S. 197-205. DOI:10.1007/s41449-025-00467-4

Abstract

"This article examines the protection goal of “exclusion prevention” and the design requirement of “design for inclusion and accessibility”, which are part of the initial considerations for a roadmap on artificial intelligence (AI) in occupational science research. The proposed roadmap systematically breaks down framework conditions, design requirements, instrumental goals and protection goals. The concept presented provides guidance for future research and can also serve as a basis for scientific policy advice. The in-depth examination of inclusion and AI takes place against the background that, on the one hand these aspects are underrepresented in occupational science research, and technological development can lead to a surge of change, particularly in the area of inclusive work design, on the other. Two expert workshops were held to answer the research question of what opportunities and risks AI technologies offer for the professional integration of people with disabilities, and what research and development needs to exist. The results show that some useful systems already exist, but that they can also have negative effects and that there is a need for further development. Practical relevance: The presented aspects of the roadmap on artificial intelligence (AI) from the perspective of occupational science research is relevant for both companies and policy actors who want to gain a systematic overview of AI in the world of work. A particular focus is on the issue of inclusive work design. In an expert workshop, it became clear that an optimistic view of the use of artificial intelligence for inclusive work design prevails both in companies or workshops employing people with disabilities and in the field of consulting. At the same time, however, development needs and potential risks were identified. The results provide an overview of the current potential uses of AI and are also of interest to companies that do not yet employ people with disabilities but are planning to do so." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Agrawal, Ajay K., Joshua S. Gans & Avi Goldfarb (2025): Genius on Demand: The Value of Transformative Artificial Intelligence. (NBER working paper / National Bureau of Economic Research 34316), Cambridge, Mass, 20 S.

Abstract

"This paper examines how the emergence of transformative AI systems providing ``genius on demand" would affect knowledge worker allocation and labour market outcomes. We develop a simple model distinguishing between routine knowledge workers, who can only apply existing knowledge with some uncertainty, and genius workers, who create new knowledge at a cost increasing with distance from a known point. When genius capacity is scarce, we find it should be allocated primarily to questions at domain boundaries rather than at midpoints between known answers. The introduction of AI geniuses fundamentally transforms this allocation. In the short run, human geniuses specialise in questions that are furthest from existing knowledge, where their comparative advantage over AI is greatest. In the long run, routine workers may be completely displaced if AI efficiency approaches human genius efficiency." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Alasalmi, Juho (2025): Artificial Intelligence in the European Labour Markets. (DIFIS-Impuls 2026,1), Duisburg ; Bremen, 4 S.

Abstract

"This review surveys the emerging evidence regarding the effects of artificial intelligence technologies in the labour market and on labour market inequality through the lens of the theoretical framework of task-based production and the literature in the field of economics on technological change. The evidence analysed concerns the time period after the early 2010s, with an emphasis on the effects of generative AI after 2022. The focus is on research studying European labour markets. After outlining the context of routine- and skill-biased technological change and job polarisation, the existing evidence regarding AI adoption in production and its effects on productivity and employment is reviewed. The review concludes with a discussion on labour market policy that mediates the effects of AI on the distribution of productivity gains and the direction of technological change and a consideration of the effect of technological change on attitudes toward labour market policy and democracy itself." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Anger, Silke, Melanie Arntz, Elisabeth Artmann, Ann-Christin Bächmann, Wolfgang Braun, Kerstin Bruckmeier, Herbert Brücker, Bernhard Christoph, Matthias Collischon, Wolfgang Dauth, Martin Dietz, Bernd Fitzenberger, Jan Gellermann, Samia Gherbaoui, Nina Gläser, Nicole Gürtzgen, Anette Haas, Timon Hellwagner, Pascal Heß, Karolin Hiesinger, Christian Hohendanner, Katrin Hohmeyer, Elke J. Jahn, Markus Janser, Simon Janssen, Stefanie Wolter, Torsten Lietzmann, Florian Lehmer, Ute Leber, Joachim Wolff, Claudia Wenzig, Julia Lang, Susanne Wanger, Sarah Kuhn, Philipp Vom Berge, Alexander Kubis, Ulrich Walwei, Simon Trenkle, Michael Stops, Yuliya Kosyakova, Ignat Stepanok, Duncan Roth, Angela Rauch, Martin Popp, Dana Müller, Andreas Mense, Gerd Zika, Enzo Weber, Holger Seibert, Philipp Ramos Lobato, Christoph Müller, Gesine Stephan, Michael Oberfichtner, Britta Matthes & Nancy Reims (2025): Zentrale Befunde zu aktuellen Arbeitsmarktthemen 2025. Nürnberg, 21 S. DOI:10.48720/IAB.GP.2505.1

Abstract

"Digitalisierung und Künstliche Intelligenz, Dekarbonisierung und demografischer Wandel werden den Arbeitsmarkt in den kommenden Jahren erheblich verändern. Gleichzeitig wird eine Deindustrialisierung Deutschlands befürchtet. Handlungsbedarf besteht beispielsweise bei der Sicherung des Arbeitskräftebedarfs – und damit verbunden bei den Themen Aus- und Weiterbildung –, bei der Reduzierung der Arbeitslosigkeit und insbesondere der Langzeitarbeitslosigkeit sowie bei der sozialen Absicherung von Solo-Selbständigen Zu all diesen und zahlreichen weiteren wichtigen Themen fasst die IAB-Broschüre „Zentrale Befunde zu aktuellen Arbeitsmarkt-Themen 2025“ die zentralen wissenschaftlichen Befunde kompakt zusammen. Sie bietet zudem Handlungsempfehlungen für die Arbeitsmarktpolitik, die aus den wissenschaftlichen Befunden abgeleitet wurden." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Arntz, Melanie, Myriam Baum, Eduard Brüll, Ralf Dorau, Matthias Hartwig, Florian Lehmer, Britta Matthes, Sophie-Charlotte Meyer, Oliver Schlenker, Anita Tisch & Sascha Wischniewski (2025): Digitalisierung und Wandel der Beschäftigung (DiWaBe 2.0): Eine Datengrundlage für die Erforschung von Künstlicher Intelligenz und anderer Technologien in der Arbeitswelt. (baua: Bericht), Dortmund, 48 S. DOI:10.21934/baua:bericht20250225

Abstract

"In Deutschland nutzt bereits mehr als die Hälfte der Beschäftigten Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) am Arbeitsplatz - überwiegend jedoch informell. Dies deutet darauf hin, dass viele Beschäftigte KI als hilfreiche Unterstützung wahrnehmen, zugleich aber die formelle Einführung seitens der Betriebe den Erwartungen der Beschäftigten hinterherhinkt. Der vorliegende Bericht präsentiert die Ergebnisse der DiWaBe 2.0-Befragung, einer repräsentativen Querschnittserhebung von rund 9.800 sozialversicherungspflichtig Beschäftigten in Deutschland, die im Jahr 2024 durchgeführt wurde. Ziel der Befragung ist es, eine Datengrundlage zu schaffen, um die Auswirkungen des technologischen Wandels - und insbesondere von KI - auf die Arbeitswelt abzuschätzen. Im Fokus stehen dabei vor allem Veränderungen von Tätigkeiten und Anforderungen am Arbeitsplatz, Arbeitsbedingungen und -organisation, Weiterbildungsaktivitäten sowie die Gesundheit der Beschäftigten. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Nutzung von KI stark von individuellen und beruflichen Faktoren wie Berufssegment, Bildung, Alter und Geschlecht abhängt. So nutzt nur knapp ein Drittel der Beschäftigten ohne Bildungsabschluss KI, während dieser Anteil bei Beschäftigten mit Hochschul-, Meister-oder Technikerabschluss fast 80 % beträgt. Erste multivariate Analysen zeigen, dass Beschäftigte, die ihre KI-Nutzung in den letzten fünf Jahren intensiviert haben, von komplexeren Tätigkeitsanforderungen berichten, insbesondere in den Bereichen Schreiben, Programmierung und Mathematik. Zudem ist eine intensivierte KI-Nutzung mit einer höheren Arbeitsautonomie, aber auch mit einer höheren Arbeitsintensität verbunden. Es zeigt sich jedoch kein statistisch signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen der Nutzung von KI und der Gesundheit der Beschäftigten. Zudem unterscheiden sich Beschäftigte mit KI-Nutzung nicht von Nichtnutzenden hinsichtlich ihrer Teilnahme an Weiterbildung." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Arntz, Melanie, Cäcilia Lipowski, Guido Neidhöfer & Ulrich Zierahn-Weilage (2025): Computers as Stepping Stones? Technological Change and Equality of Labor Market Opportunities. In: Journal of labor economics, Jg. 43, H. 2, S. 503-543., 2023-08-18. DOI:10.1086/727490

Abstract

"This paper analyzes whether technological change improves equality of labor market opportunities by increasing the returns to skills relative to the returns to parental background. We find that in Germany during the 1990s, the introduction of computer technologies improved the access to technology-adopting occupations for workers with low-educated parents, and reduced their wage penalty within these occupations. We also show that this significantly contributed to a decline in the overall wage penalty experienced by workers from disadvantaged parental back-grounds over this time period. Competing mechanisms, such as skill-specific labor supply shocks and skill-upgrading, do not explain these findings." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Arntz, Melanie, Myriam Baum, Eduard Brüll, Ralf Dorau, Matthias Hartwig, Britta Matthes, Sophie-Charlotte Meyer, Oliver Schlenker, Anita Tisch & Sascha Wischniewski (2025): Low Barriers, High Stakes: Formal and Informal Diffusion of AI in the Workplace. (Ifo working papers 422), München, 28 S.

Abstract

"Artificial intelligence (AI) is diffusing rapidly in the workplace, yet aggregate productivity gains remain limited. This paper examines the dual diffusion of AI – through both formal, employer-led and informal, employee-initiated adoption – as potential explanation. Using a representative survey of nearly 10,000 employees in Germany, we document a high extensive but low intensive margin of usage: while 64 percent use AI tools, only 20 percent use them frequently. This diffusion is strongly skill-biased and depends less on establishment and regional characteristics. While formality is associated with more frequent usage, training, AI-based supervision, and higher perceived productivity gains, it does not broaden access. These patterns suggest that widespread informal usage can coexist with limited productivity effects when complementary investments and organizational integration lag behind." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Asao, Kohei, Haruki Seitani, Ara Stepanyan & TengTeng Xu (2025): The Impact of Aging and AI on Japan's Labor Market: Challenges and Opportunities. (IMF working papers / International Monetary Fund 2025,184), Washington, DC, 17 S.

Abstract

"This paper explores the complex roles of demographic changes and technological innovation in shaping Japan's labor market. We use regression analysis to assess the impact of population aging on labor productivity and shortages. Our findings indicate that the aging workforce contributes to labor shortages and potentially weighs on labor productivity. We also investigate occupational level data to identify the complementarity and substitutability of AI in occupational tasks as well as skill transferability. Our research reveals that Japanese workers face lower exposure to AI compared to their counterparts in other advanced economies, thereby constraining AI's potential to mitigate labor shortages. Furthermore, the disparities in skill requirements across occupations with different AI exposures highlight the importance of facilitating labor mobility from displaced jobs to those in demand." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Askitas, Nikolaos (2025): Notes on a World with Generative AI. (CESifo working paper 12070), München, 27 S.

Abstract

"Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs) are moving into domains once seen as uniquely human—reasoning, synthesis, abstraction, and rhetoric. Addressed to labor economists and informed readers, this paper clarifies what is truly new about LLMs, what is not, and why it matters. Using an analogy to autoregressive models from economics, we explain their stochastic nature, whose fluency is often mistaken for agency. We situate LLMs in the longer history of human–machine outsourcing, from digestion to cognition, and examine disruptive effects on white-collar labor, institutions, and epistemic norms. Risks emerge when synthetic content becomes both product and input, creating feedback loops that erode originality and reliability. Grounding the discussion in conceptual clarity over hype, we argue that while GenAI may substitute for some labor, statistical limits will preserve a key role for human judgment. The question is not only how these tools are used, but which tasks we relinquish and how we reallocate expertise in a new division of cognitive labor." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Assmus, Josephine (2025): Handel im Umbruch. Transformation, Beschäftigung und Qualifizierung im Bremer Einzelhandel. (Reihe Arbeit und Wirtschaft in Bremen 52), Bremen: Institut Arbeit und Wirtschaft (IAW), Universität Bremen und Arbeit­nehmer­kammer Bremen, 29 S.

Abstract

"Der Einzelhandel befindet sich in einem umfassenden Strukturwandel, der durch tiefgreifende technologische, demografische und ökonomische Veränderungen geprägt ist. Parallel dazu führen veränderte Konsummuster, zunehmende Marktvolatilität und eine Erosion der Tarifbindung zu erheblichen Anpassungsanforderungen für Beschäftigte und Betriebe. Der Einzelhandel ist dabei durch eine ausgeprägte Heterogenität hinsichtlich Betriebsgrößen, Beschäftigungsformen und Branchensegmenten gekennzeichnet und zugleich durch hohe Teilzeitquoten, einen überdurchschnittlichen Frauenanteil sowie prekäre Arbeitsverhältnisse geprägt. Der vorliegende Branchenbericht untersucht am Beispiel des Landes Bremen die Auswirkungen von Digitalisierung, demografischem Wandel und Fachkräftemangel auf die Beschäftigtenstruktur, Arbeitsprozesse und Qualifikationsanforderungen im Einzelhandel. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass digitale Technologien sowohl Substituierungspotenziale als auch neue Belastungsfaktoren erzeugen. Während Automatisierung und digitale Assistenzsysteme Tätigkeitsprofile verändern und physische Arbeit entlasten können, erhöhen sie zugleich den kognitiven und zeitlichen Druck. Für eine sozialverträgliche Gestaltung des Wandels sind daher erweiterte Mitbestimmungsrechte, gezielte Qualifizierungsstrategien und eine Stärkung der Tarifbindung erforderlich. Qualifizierung und Weiterbildung müssen als zentrale Handlungsfelder institutionell verankert und gleichstellungspolitisch flankiert werden, um Beschäftigungsperspektiven und Teilhabechancen - insbesondere für Frauen - im transformierten Einzelhandel langfristig zu sichern." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Aum, Sangmin & Yongseok Shin (2025): The Labor Market Impact of Digital Technologies. (NBER working paper / National Bureau of Economic Research 33469), Cambridge, Mass, 17 S.

Abstract

"We investigate the impact of digital technology on employment patterns in Korea, where firms have rapidly adopted digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and the internet of things (IoT). By exploiting regional variations in technology exposure, we find significant negative effects on high-skill and female workers, particularly those in non-IT (information technology) services. This contrasts with previous technological disruptions, such as the IT revolution and robotization, which primarily affected low-skill male workers in manufacturing. In IT services, although high-skill employment declined, vacancy postings for high-skill workers increased, implying a shift in labor demand toward newer skill sets. These findings highlight both the labor displacement and the new opportunities generated by digital transformation." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Auray, Stéphane & Aurélien Eyquem (2025): On automation, labor reallocation and welfare. In: Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Jg. 177. DOI:10.1016/j.jedc.2025.105129

Abstract

"We develop an open-economy model of endogenous automation with heterogeneous firms and labor-market reallocation to quantify the contribution of various trends to the adoption of robots in the U.S. economy. The decline in the relative price of robots is the major trend leading to automation, but interacts with other trends that either hinder (rising entry costs, rising markups) or slightly foster (rising labor productivity, declining trade costs) the adoption of robots. Taken alone, the decline in the relative price of robots produces moderate welfare gains in the long run, but less than labor productivity growth. We then exploit our model to show that a decline in the relative price of robots (i) generates small positive cross-country automation spillovers and (ii) produces inefficient labor-market reallocation since a small subsidy on robots combined with a training subsidy can generate small welfare gains. Our main conclusion is that automation can not be simply modeled as an exogenous decline in the price of robots, and must be analyzed in a broader framework taking into account trends affecting firms, such as the decline in business dynamism and the rise in markups." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Autor, David & Neil Thompson (2025): Expertise. In: Journal of the European Economic Association, Jg. 23, H. 4, S. 1203-1271. DOI:10.1093/jeea/jvaf023

Abstract

"When job tasks are automated, does this augment or diminish the value of labor in the tasks that remain? We argue the answer depends on whether removing tasks raises or reduces the expertise required for remaining non-automated tasks. Since the same task may be relatively expert in one occupation and inexpert in another, automation can simultaneously replace experts in some occupations while augmenting expertise in others. We propose a conceptual model of occupational task bundling that predicts that changing occupational expertise requirements have countervailing wage and employment effects: automation that decreases expertise requirements reduces wages but permits the entry of less expert workers; automation that raises requirements raises wages but reduces the set of qualified workers. We develop a novel, content-agnostic method for measuring job task expertise, and we use it to quantify changes in occupational expertise demands over four decades attributable to job task removal and addition. We document that automation has raised wages and reduced employment in occupations where it eliminated inexpert tasks, but lowered wages and increased employment in occupations where it eliminated expert tasks. These effects are distinct from—and in the case of employment,opposite to—the effects of changing task quantities. The expertise framework resolves the puzzle of why routine task automation has lowered employment but often raised wages in routine task-intensive occupations. It provides a general tool for analyzing how task automation and new task creation reshape the scarcity value of human expertise within and across occupations." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Badura, Bernhard, Antje Ducki, Markus Meyer, Johanna Baumgardt & Helmut Schröder (Hrsg.) (2025): Fehlzeiten-Report 2025. KI und Gesundheit - Möglichkeiten nutzen, Risiken bewältigen, Orientierung geben. (Fehlzeiten-Report 27), Berlin: Springer, 735 S. DOI:10.1007/978-3-662-71885-8

Abstract

"Der jährlich erscheinende Fehlzeiten-Report informiert umfassend über die Entwicklung des Krankenstandes von Beschäftigten in Deutschland. Neben detaillierten Sekundäranalysen von Versichertendaten werden empirische Studienergebnisse, zeitgemäße methodische Herangehensweisen und Leuchtturmprojekte der Betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung vorgestellt. Vor dem Hintergrund aktueller technischer Entwicklungen beleuchtet der Fehlzeiten-Report 2025 schwerpunktmäßig Chancen und Herausforderungen des Einsatzes von Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) in der Arbeitswelt. Er bietet einen orientierenden Überblick zu den Auswirkungen des Einsatzes von KI auf die betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung, Arbeitsumgebungen, Führung und Beschäftigte in Organisationen und erörtert aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven u.a die folgenden Fragen: - Wie kann KI so zum Einsatz gebracht werden, dass die menschlichen Fähigkeiten erweitert und gleichzeitig die Gesundheit der Beschäftigten und die individuelle Privatsphäre geschützt werden? - Wie gelingt die Entwicklung von KI-Systemen, in denen Mensch und Maschine produktiv zusammenarbeiten? - Welche wissenschaftlich fundierten Lösungsansätze zum menschen- und gesundheitszentrierten Umgang mit KI gibt es im Arbeitsschutz und der betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung? Darüber hinaus liefert der Fehlzeiten-Report 2025 in gewohnter Qualität Daten und Analysen zu Fehlzeiten von Beschäftigten in Deutschland: - Aktuelle Statistiken zum Krankenstand in allen Branchen - Vergleichende Analysen nach Berufsgruppen, Bundesländern und Städten - Die wichtigsten für Arbeitsunfähigkeit verantwortlichen Krankheitsarten - Detaillierte Auswertungen u.a. zu Arbeitsunfällen, Langzeitarbeitsunfähigkeit, Burnout und Kinderkrankengeld. Zudem gibt es vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen Diskussion um hohe Fehlzeiten einen Beitrag zur Einführung von Karenztagen und möglichen Effekten einer Absenkung der Lohnersatzrate." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Baranyi, Virág (2025): Systematic literature review on the digital transformation of the personnel selection process. In: German Journal of Human Resource Management, S. 1-32. DOI:10.1177/23970022251363012

Abstract

"Digital Transformation technologies (DT technologies) are reshaping work processes, including personnel selection, an area traditionally viewed as inherently human-centric. While prior studies have examined various digital technologies in personnel selection, they have not provided sufficient evidence on the different levels of digitalization in selection processes and the factors influencing organizations’ adoption decisions. To address these gaps, this study systematically reviews 94 Scopus-indexed studies to analyze how DT technologies are applied across selection stages, categorizing practices into Manual, Digitalized, and Digitally Transformed approaches. By further distinguishing between Digital Technologies and AI Enhancements, this study offers a structured framework for understanding how organizations integrate digital technologies into selection and what drives or hinders their adoption. The findings highlight both the benefits (efficiency gains, potential bias reduction, improved candidate experience) and challenges (ethical concerns, algorithmic bias, technical and cultural barriers, and candidate perceptions) associated with these technologies, providing insights for both academic research and HR practice." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Battisti, Michele, Massimo Del Gatto, Antonio Francesco Gravina & Christopher F. Parmeter (2025): Robotic capital - skill complementarity. In: Macroeconomic Dynamics, Jg. 29, S. e54. DOI:10.1017/s1365100524000567

Abstract

"Relying upon an original (country-sector-year) measure of robotic capital (RK), we investigate the degree of complementarity/substitutability between robots and workers at different skill levels. We employ nonparametric methods to estimate elasticity of substitution patterns between RK and skilled/unskilled labor over the period 1995–2009. We show that: i) on average, RK exhibits less substitutability with skilled workers compared to unskilled workers, indicating a phenomenon of “RK-Skill complementarity”. This pattern holds in a global context characterized by significant heterogeneity; ii) the dynamic of “RK-Skill complementarity” has increased since the early 2000s; iii) the observed strengthening is more prominent in OECD countries, as opposed to non-OECD countries, and in the Manufacturing sector, compared to non-Manufacturing industries." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Bauer, Bernhard, Sabrina Mühlbauer, Kerstin Schlögl-Flierl, Enzo Weber & Paula Ziethmann (2025): Ethical Integration in Public Sector AI. The Case of Algorithmic Systems in the Public Employment Service in Germany. (IAB-Discussion Paper 12/2025), Nürnberg, 32 S. DOI:10.48720/IAB.DP.2512

Abstract

"Dieser Artikel befasst sich mit der ethischen Gestaltung von Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) im öffentlichen Sektor, wobei der Fokus auf den öffentlichen Arbeitsverwaltungen liegt. Während KI zunehmend zur effizienteren Gestaltung von Verwaltungsprozessen und zur Verbesserung der Dienstleistungserbringung eingesetzt wird, wirft ihre Anwendung in der Arbeitsvermittlung grundlegende Fragen hinsichtlich Fairness, Rechenschaftspflicht und demokratischer Legitimität auf. Das EU-Gesetz zur Künstlichen Intelligenz (EU AI Act) unterstreicht die Dringlichkeit der Bewältigung dieser Herausforderungen, indem es KI-Systeme, die die Arbeitsvermittlung betreffen, als risikoreich einstuft und damit strenge Schutzmaßnahmen vorschreibt, um Diskriminierung zu verhindern und Transparenz zu gewährleisten. Das zentrale Ziel dieser Studie ist es zu untersuchen, wie ethische und soziale Überlegungen systematisch in die Entwicklung und Umsetzung von KI im öffentlichen Sektor eingebunden werden können. Anhand der deutschen öffentlichen Arbeitsverwaltung als Fallstudie stellen wir den Ansatz „Embedded Ethics and Social Sciences” (EE) vor. Dieser Ansatz integriert ethische Überlegungen und den Bezug zur Praxis bereits in die Entwicklung des Modells. Qualitative Erkenntnisse aus Interviews mit Vermittlungsfachkräften verdeutlichen die soziotechnischen Herausforderungen der Umsetzung, insbesondere die Notwendigkeit, Effizienz mit dem Vertrauen der Bürger:innen in Einklang zu bringen. Auf der Grundlage dieser Erkenntnisse geben wir Empfehlungen für die Gestaltung von KI-Systemen, welche sich aus der Integration ethischer und sozialer Überlegungen in die Systementwicklung ergeben. In diesem Zusammenhang diskutieren wir Fragen der Datenethik und Bias, der Fairness und der Rolle erklärbarer KI (XAI). Unsere Analyse zeigt, dass der EE-Ansatz nicht nur die Einhaltung neuer regulatorischer Anforderungen unterstützt, sondern auch die menschliche Aufsicht, die Handlungsfähigkeit und gemeinsame Entscheidungsfindung stärken kann. So deuten die Ergebnisse darauf hin, dass ein ethisch fundiertes Design Fairness, Transparenz und Legitimität in verschiedenen Bereichen der öffentlichen Verwaltung erhöhen kann und somit zu einer verantwortungsvolleren und bürgernahen Umsetzung im digitalen Zeitalter beiträgt." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Bennett, Jeremy (2025): Remote work, skill upgrading, and wage inequality post-COVID. In: Economics of Innovation and New Technology, S. 1-24. DOI:10.1080/10438599.2025.2602133

Abstract

"This paper examines how the widespread shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped skill development and wage inequality across occupations in the United States. Using a difference-in-differences framework and data from the Current Population Survey (CPS), American Time Use Survey (ATUS), and O*NET, we compare outcomes for remote-capable and non-remote occupations before and after the pandemic. Results show that remote-capable jobs experienced significantly higher wage growth – approximately 4–5 percent – relative to non-remote jobs, even after accounting for worker and occupational characteristics. These occupations also displayed greater gains in educational attainment and digital skill engagement, while non-remote occupations faced disruptions in access to training. The findings align with human-capital and task-based theories, suggesting that remote work intensified skill-biased technological inequality. Policy implications include the need for targeted workforce training, equitable digital infrastructure investment, and institutional support for workers in less adaptable roles. The study contributes to understanding how technological and organizational change reshape human capital formation and wage structures in the post-pandemic labor market." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Bennett, Patrick & Julian Vedeler Johnsen (2025): Intersecting Shocks: The Combined Labor Market Impacts of Automation and Immigration. (CESifo working paper 12217), München, 41 S.

Abstract

"We study how the labor market shocks of automation and immigration interact to shape workers' outcomes. Using matched employer –employee data from Norwegian administrative registers, we combine animmigration shock triggered by the European Union's 2004 enlargement with an automation shock based on the adoption of industrial robots across Europe. Although these shocks largely occur in separate industries, we show that automation reduces earnings not only in manufacturing but also in construction, where tasks overlap with robot-exposed sectors. Importantly, workers jointly exposed to automation and immigration suffer earnings losses greater than those facing either shock in isolation. These losses are driven by downward occupational mobility into low-wage services and re-sorting into lower-premium firms. Even within the Norwegian welfare system, the ability of social insurance to offset these long-run earnings declines is limited. Our findings underscore the importance of analyzing labor market shocks jointly, rather than in isolation, to fully understand their distributional consequences." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Bertermann, Alexander, Wolfgang Dauth, Jens Suedekum & Ludger Wößmann (2025): Training or Retiring? How Labor Markets Adjust to Trade and Technology Shocks. (IZA discussion paper / Forschungsinstitut zur Zukunft der Arbeit 18247), Bonn, 47 S.

Abstract

"How do firms and workers adjust to trade and technology shocks? We analyze two mechanisms that have received little attention: training that upgrades skills and early retirement that shifts adjustment costs to public pension systems. We combine novel data on training participation and early retirement in German local labor markets with established measures of exposure to trade competition and robot adoption. Results indicate that negative trade shocks reduce Training - particularly in manufacturing - while robot exposure increases Training - particularly in indirectly affected services. Both shocks raise early retirement among manufacturing workers. Structural change thus induces both productivity-enhancing and productivity-reducing responses, challenging simple narratives of labor market adaptation and highlighting the scope for policy to promote adjustment mechanisms conducive to aggregate productivity." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Beyer, Jürgen & Katharina Legantke (2025): Varieties of Gig Work: Germany’s Unique Development in the Platform-based Food Delivery Sector. In: Zeitschrift für Soziologie, Jg. 54, H. 4, S. 381-399. DOI:10.1515/zfsoz-2025-2024

Abstract

"Diese Studie untersucht die Entwicklung des plattformbasierten Lebensmittelliefersektors in Deutschland und insbesondere die Gründe dafür, warum sich das in der Gig-Economy übliche Modell mit selbstständigen Kurier:innen hierzulande nicht durchgesetzt hat. Im Gegensatz zu vielen anderen Ländern stellen die großen Lebensmittellieferplattformen in Deutschland ihre Beschäftigten direkt an und gewähren ihnen Rechte sowie Sozialleistungen wie Mindestlohn, bezahlten Urlaub und Lohnfortzahlung im Krankheitsfall. Anhand einer historisch-soziologischen Fallstudie zeigt die Untersuchung, wie der frühe Einfluss von „Bringdienst.de“, das Restaurants Online-Bestellungen ermöglichte, ohne den Lieferprozess selbst zu organisieren, die Entwicklung der Branche maßgeblich geprägt hat. Ein wegweisendes Gerichtsurteil im Jahr 2020 verstärkte zudem die Bedenken hinsichtlich Scheinselbstständigkeit und führte letztlich dazu, dass die Plattformen vom Gig-Worker-Modell mit selbstständigen Kurier:innen Abstand nahmen." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku, © De Gruyter)

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Bisio, Laura, Angelo Cuzzola, Marco Grazzi & Daniele Moschella (2025): The dynamics of automation adoption: Firm-level heterogeneity and aggregate employment effects. In: European Economic Review, Jg. 173. DOI:10.1016/j.euroecorev.2024.104943

Abstract

"We investigate the impact of investment in automation-related goods on adopting and non-adopting firms in the Italian economy during 2011–2019. We integrate datasets on trade activities, firms’, and workers’ characteristics for the population of Italian importing firms and estimate the effects on adopters ’ outcomes within a difference-in-differences design exploiting import lumpiness in product categories linked to automation technologies (including robots). We find a positive average adoption effect on the adopters’ employment: firms are, on average, around 3% larger in terms of employment after an automation spike. Crucially, the employment effect is heterogeneous across firms: a positive effect is predominant among small firms, which are around 5% larger five years after the spike; on the contrary, a negative displacement effect is predominant among medium and large firms, with an employment contraction at five years of around -4%. This result can shed light on one potential reason behind the mixed results in the literature, i.e. different size distribution of the samples used. We complete the framework with a 5-digit sector-level analysis showing that adopting automation technologies has an overall weak negative effect on aggregate employment, and with an analysis of the competition effects of automation, showing that non-adopters suffer a loss in sales and employment." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Bonoli, Giuliano, Patrick Emmenegger & Alina Felder-Stindt (2025): Re‐Skilling in the Age of Skill Shortage: Adult Education Rather Than Active Labor Market Policy. In: Regulation and governance, S. 1-13. DOI:10.1111/rego.70065

Abstract

"European economies face the task of providing the necessary skills for the “twin transition ” in a period of skill shortage. As a result, we may expect countries to reorient their labor market policy towards re-skilling. We look for evidence of a reorientation in two relevant policy fields: active labor market policy (ALMP) and adult education (AE). We explore general trends in both fields based on quantitative indicators and compare recent policy developments in four countries with strong ALMP and AE sectors: Denmark, France, Germany, and Sweden. We do not observe clear evidence of a general movement away from activation and towards re-skilling in ALMP. However, in AE, we identify several re-skilling initiatives that address skill shortages. Relying on insights from queuing theories of hiring and training, we argue that due to changes in the population targeted by ALMP, the locus of re-skilling policy is increasingly moving towards AE." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Borgonovi, Francesca, Francesca Bastagli, Maja Ochojska & Giovanni Piumatti (2025): AI adoption in the education system. International insights and policy considerations for Italy. (OECD Artificial Intelligence Papers 52), Paris, 100 S. DOI:10.1787/69bd0a4a-en

Abstract

"This paper examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can be deliberately deployed to tackle persistent disparities in primary and secondary schools and to align curricula with changing skill demands. It focuses on three priorities for Italy’s school system: preventing dropout and promoting learning, reducing the maths gender gap, supporting students with an immigrant background. Drawing on international evidence, the paper reviews how AI can support these objectives, the risks that may arise, and possible mitigation strategies. It also considers how countries are integrating AI literacy and reforming curricula in response to shifting skill needs. The paper proposes key principles and a policy roadmap to guide AI adoption in schools. Recent initiatives in OECD countries illustrate opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption in schools and potential policy options for Italy." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Brull, Eduard, Samuel Maurer & Davud Rostam-Afschar (2025): Beliefs about Bots: How Employers Plan for AI in White-Collar Work. (arXiv papers), 11 S.

Abstract

"We provide experimental evidence on how employers adjust expectations to automation risk in high-skill, white-collar work. Using a randomized information intervention among tax advisors in Germany, we show that firms systematically underestimate automatability. Information provision raises risk perceptions, especially for routine-intensive roles. Yet, it leaves short-run hiring plans unchanged. Instead, updated beliefs increase productivity and financial expectations with minor wage adjustments, implying within-firm inequality like limited rent-sharing. Employers also anticipate new tasks in legal tech, compliance, and AI interaction, and report higher training and adoption intentions." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Brynjolfsson, Erik, Bharat Chandar & Ruyu Chen (2025): Canaries in the Coal Mine? Six Facts about the Recent Employment Effects of Artificial Intelligence. (Working Papers / Stanford Digital Economy Lab), Stanford, 57 S.

Abstract

"This paper examines changes in the labor market for occupations exposed to generative artificial intelligence using high-frequency administrative data from the largest payroll software provider in the United States. We present six facts that characterize these shifts. We find that since the widespread adoption of generative AI, early-career workers (ages 22-25) in the most AI-exposed occupations have experienced a 13 percent relative decline in employment even after controlling for firm-level shocks. In contrast, employment for workers in less exposed fields and more experienced workers in the same occupations has remained stable or continued to grow. We also find that adjustments occur primarily through employment rather than compensation. Furthermore, employment declines are concentrated in occupations where AI is more likely to automate, rather than augment, human labor. Our results are robust to alternative explanations, such as excluding technology-related firms and excluding occupations amenable to remote work. These six facts provide early, large-scale evidence consistent with the hypothesis that the AI revolution is beginning to have a significant and disproportionate impact on entry-level workers in the American labor market." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Buzzelli, Gregorio (2025): Automation and segmentation: Downgrading employment quality among the former “insiders” of Western European labour markets. In: International Journal of Social Welfare, Jg. 34, H. 2. DOI:10.1111/ijsw.70011

Abstract

"The literature on labor market segmentation traditionally looks at servitisation as the main structural driver behind the rise of employment precariousness, overlooking another crucial engine of the knowledge-economy transition: the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) revolution. This paper proposes a task-based approach to complement the skill-biased framework usually applied to labor market segmentation, investigating the correlation between occupational exposure to the risk of automation and low-quality employment. The empirical analysis, based on 14 countries sampled from ESS (2002–2018), shows a strong correlation between technological replaceability and low income across all of Western Europe, especially after the Great Recession, while its association with atypical employment is mainly driven by fixed-term contracts in Central and Southern Europe and by part-time arrangements in Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian countries. Overall, a “recalibrated” dualisation emerges in Western European labor markets, characterized by the diffusion of low labor earnings and atypical contracts among mid-skill routine workers, besides the low-skill service precariat." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Büchel, Jan, Jan Felix Engler & Armin Mertens (2025): KI-Jobs in Deutschland: Stagnation statt Boom. Eine Analyse von Online-Stellenanzeigen. 22 S. DOI:10.11586/2025025

Abstract

"Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) ist eine zentrale Zukunftstechnologie, die mehr Effizienz und Produktivität in Unternehmen ermöglichen kann. Vor dem Hintergrund der angespannten wirtschaftlichen Lage Deutschlands und dem vorliegenden demografiebedingten Fachkräftemangel sollten Unternehmen das Potenzial von KI nutzen, um ihre Wettbewerbsfähigkeit zu stärken. Positiv ist, dass im Jahr 2024 etwa jedes fünfte Unternehmen in Deutschland angibt, KI bereits zu nutzen. Der KI-Einsatz benötigt dabei neue Kompetenzen, beispielsweise wenn Unternehmen KI-Lösungen selbst entwickeln möchten. Auch wenn zugekaufte KI-Lösungen im Unternehmen angewendet werden, entstehen Kompetenzbedarfe. Um die Bedarfe der Unternehmen zu erfassen, hat das Institut der deutschen Wirtschaft im Auftrag der Bertelsmann Stiftung Online-Stellenanzeigen mit Bezug zu KI aus den Jahren 2019 bis 2024 analysiert." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Cardi, Olivier & Romain Restout (2025): Why hours worked decline less after technology shocks? In: Journal of International Economics, Jg. 157. DOI:10.1016/j.jinteco.2025.104095

Abstract

"The contractionary effect of technology shocks on hours gradually vanishes over time in OECD countries. To rationalize the decline in hours and its disappearance, we use a VAR-based decomposition of technology shocks into symmetric and asymmetric technology improvements. While hours decline dramatically when technology improves at the same rate across sectors, hours significantly increase when technology improvements occur at different rates. Because they are primarily driven by symmetric technology improvements, permanent technology shocks drive down total hours. Such a decline progressively vanishes due to the growing importance of asymmetric technology shocks. To reach these two conclusions, we simulate a two-sector model which can reproduce the contractionary effect on hours once the economy is internationally open and we allow for production factors’ mobility costs, factor-biased technological change, and home bias. To account for the vanishing decline in hours, we have to let the share of asymmetric technology shocks increase over time." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Chaar, Tania, Francesco Filippucci, Cecilia Jona-Lasinio & Giuseppe Nicoletti (2025): AI and the global productivity divide. Fuel for the fast or a lift for the laggards? (OECD Artificial Intelligence Papers 51), Paris, 42 S. DOI:10.1787/c315ea90-en

Abstract

"Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to be an important driver of productivity growth over the next decade, even if with significant cross-country heterogeneity. This paper examines the potential of AI to foster productivity growth in Low-Income Countries (LICs) and Lower-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). LICs and LMICs risk benefiting less from AI due to low incidence of knowledge-intensive services, where gains from AI mostly occur. Additionally, barriers to AI adoption include inadequate digital infrastructure, low levels of education and skills in the workforce, limited access to financing for high AI adoption costs, and underdeveloped regulatory frameworks. At the same time, LICs and LMICs may benefit from factors such as a young workforce and international spillovers through knowledge transfers. Overall, structural weaknesses in LICs and LMICs risk outweighing these potential advantages. This underscores the need for policies that enhance capabilities for AI adoption in LICs and LMICs and help seizing long-run opportunities from the global AI economy." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Dabed, Diego, Sabrina Genz & Emilie Rademakers (2025): Equalising the effects of automation? The role of task overlap for job finding. In: Labour Economics, Jg. 96. DOI:10.1016/j.labeco.2025.102766

Abstract

"This paper investigates whether task overlap can equalise the distributional effects of automation for unemployed job seekers displaced from routine jobs. Using a language model, we establish a novel job-to-job task similarity measure. Exploiting the resulting job network to define job markets flexibly, we find that only the most similar jobs affect job finding. Since automation-exposed jobs overlap with other highly exposed jobs, task-based reallocation provides little relief for affected job seekers. We show that this is not true for more recent software exposure, for which task overlap lowers the inequality in job finding." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Authors. Published byElsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Diebold, Céline (2025): Using Google search data to examine factory automation and its effect on employment. In: Economic analysis and policy, Jg. 86, S. 1301-1328. DOI:10.1016/j.eap.2025.03.042

Abstract

"This paper revisits the link between robot adoption and employment across more than 100 European regions over a period of five years. A simple model is provided arguing that interest in robots precedes the actual deployment of robots. Thus, a novel instrument is introduced: interest in automation revealed by Google searches. This allows for a tentatively causal interpretation of the results. A small, yet significant positive aggregate effect is identified, along with heterogeneous effects across sex and educational attainment. The local effect on aggregate employment tends to be roughly twice as large as the spillover effect on neighbouring regions." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of The Economic Society of Australia (Queensland) Inc.) ((en))

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Dorville, Yann, Francesco Filippucci & Luca Marcolin (2025): How do structural trends affect labour market shortages and mismatch? (OECD productivity working papers 38), Paris, 63 S. DOI:10.1787/acfb5c31-en

Abstract

"This paper examines how AI and digital technology diffusion, the green transition, globalisation and population ageing jointly affect labour market tightness across 26 OECD countries and 34 sectors. It finds that digitalisation and decarbonisation increase tightness, while ageing does so only over time. Import competition and labour-substituting AI diffusion, conversely, reduce shortages." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Drago, Carlo, Alberto Costantiello, Marco Savorgnan & Angelo Leogrande (2025): Macroeconomic and Labor Market Drivers of AI Adoption in Europe: A Machine Learning and Panel Data Approach. In: Economies, Jg. 13, H. 8. DOI:10.3390/economies13080226

Abstract

"This article investigates the macroeconomic and labor market conditions that shape the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies among large firms in Europe. Based on panel data econometrics and supervised machine learning techniques, we estimate how public health spending, access to credit, export activity, gross capital formation, inflation, openness to trade, and labor market structure influence the share of firms that adopt at least one AI technology. The research covers all 28 EU members between 2018 and 2023. We employ a set of robustness checks using a combination of fixed-effects, random-effects, and dynamic panel data specifications supported by Clustering and supervised learning techniques. We find that AI adoption is linked to higher GDP per capita, healthcare spending, inflation, and openness to trade but lower levels of credit, exports, and capital formation. Labor markets with higher proportions of salaried work, service occupations, and self-employment are linked to AI diffusion, while unemployment and vulnerable work are detractors. Cluster analysis identifies groups of EU members with similar adoption patterns that are usually underpinned by stronger economic and institutional fundamentals. The results collectively suggest that AI diffusion is shaped not only by technological preparedness and capabilities to invest but by inclusive macroeconomic conditions and equitable labor institutions. Targeted policy measures can accelerate the equitable adoption of AI technologies within the European industrial economy." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Drydakis, Nick (2025): Artificial intelligence and labor market outcomes. AI has created new jobs to meet digital and automation needs, and those equipped with AI capital enjoy increased employment and wages. (IZA world of labor 514), Bonn, o. S. DOI:10.15185/izawol.514

Abstract

"AI is reshaping the labor market by creating new jobs and increasing competition for high-skilled roles, benefiting those with AI capital. While AI may boost productivity in certain jobs, it also widens the gap between high- and low-skilled employees. Less-educated employees face higher risks of displacement and reduced income. Additionally, AI introduces challenges related to workforce adaptability, trust, ethics, and transparency, which negatively impact employees' job realities. Policymakers should navigate these changes to maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating its adverse effects." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Duff, Cían, Marie Hyland, Marielena Krieg, Eleonora Peruffo, Simona Cavallini & Rossella Soldi (2025): Narrowing the digital divide. Economic and social convergence in Europe’s digital transformation. (Eurofound research report / European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions), Dublin, 822 S. DOI:10.2806/1764165

Abstract

"Digitalization has been on the EU policy agenda since 2000. While great strides have been made in this area over the past two decades, the digital transformation is not yet complete. This report seeks to deepen our understanding of the evolution towards a digital Europe. By applying the lens of convergence, the report assesses the progress of Member States towards the EU ’s policy targets, where Member States are growing together and wheredigital gaps are expanding. It also considers the gaps in the progress of digitalization between socioeconomic groups and regions. According to almost all indicators analysed, historically lower-performing Member States have been catching up with the digital leaders. However, at a more granular level, digitalization of businesses has been uneven and significant inequalities persist between regions and socioeconomic groups. The report shines a light on the role of digitalization in the EU’s economic convergence and considers the progress in and benefits of digitalisation for the private sector. The findings show that access is still an issue for vulnerable groups, in particular low-income households, older individuals and those with lower levels of education. Importantly, these are the groups that are more reliant on public services, and they may struggle to access e-government. While progress is being made, some groups remain at risk of being left behind in the digital transition. Considering this, the report highlights a range of policy approaches being deployed across Europe that aim to narrow the digital divide." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Eder, Andreas, Wolfgang Koller & Bernhard Mahlberg (2025): Industrial robots and employment change in manufacturing: A decomposition analysis. In: Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Jg. 74, S. 591-602. DOI:10.1016/j.strueco.2025.05.014

Abstract

"This paper examines the contribution of industrial robots to employment change in manufacturing in a sample of 17 European countries and the USA over the period 2004 to 2019. We combine index decomposition analysis (IDA) and production-theoretical decomposition analysis (PDA). First, we use IDA to decompose employment change in the manufacturing industry into changes in (aggregate) manufacturing output, changes in the sectoral structure of the manufacturing industry, and changes in labor intensity (the inverse of labor productivity) which is a composite index of labour intensity change within each of the nine sub-sectors of total manufacturing. Second, we use PDA to further decompose labor intensity change to isolate the contribution of technical efficiency change, technological change, human capital change, change in non-robot capital intensity and change in robot capital intensity to employment change. In almost all of the countries considered, labour intensity is falling in entire manufacturing, exerting a dampening effect on employment. Robotization contributes to this development by reducing labor intensities and employment in all countries and sub-sectors, though to varying degrees. Manufacturing output, in turn, grows in all countries except Greece, Spain and Italy, which increases employment and counteracts or in some countries even more than offsets the dampening effect of declining labor intensities. The structural change within manufacturing has an almost neutral effect in many countries." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 Elsevier B.V. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.) ((en))

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Einhoff, Jan, Isabella López Trejos & Caroline Paunov (2025): Cross-country skills-technology policy debates through large language models. (OECD science, technology and industry working papers 2025,20), Paris, 43 S. DOI:10.1787/d5f669be-en

Abstract

"Language models, this paper conducts a cross-country comparative innovation policy analysis of skills-technology policy debates across seven OECD member countries (Austria, Canada, Finland, Germany, Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom). Results highlight the dominance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and digital skills in these policy debates, the relative neglect of green skills, and the emphasis on soft skills across all technology fields. The analysis also identifies common policy instruments, which include collaborative platforms and direct financial support. Overall, the paper shows how large language models can help policy analysts identify patterns and gaps in extensive policy texts that nonetheless critically demands expert oversight and careful interpretation." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Engberg, Erik, Michael Koch, Magnus Lodefalk & Sarah Schroeder (2025): Artificial intelligence, tasks, skills, and wages: Worker-level evidence from Germany. In: Research Policy, Jg. 54, H. 8. DOI:10.1016/j.respol.2025.105285

Abstract

"This paper examines how new technologies are linked to changes in the content of work and individual wages. As a first step, it documents novel facts on task and skill changes within occupations over the past two decades in Germany. We furthermore reveal a distinct relationship between ex-ante occupational work content and ex-post exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation (robots). Workers in occupations with high AI exposure perform different activities and face different skill requirements compared to workers in occupations exposed to robots, suggesting that robots and AI are substitutes for different activities and skills. We also document that changes in the task and skill content of occupations is related to ex-ante exposure to technologies. Finally, the study uses individual labour market biographies to investigate the relationship between AI and wages. By exploring the dynamic influence of AI exposure on individuals over time, the study uncovers positive associations with wages, with nuanced variations across occupational groups, thereby shedding further light on the substitutability and augmentability of AI." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Engberg, Erik, Mark Hellsten, Farrukh Javed, Magnus Lodefalk, Radka Sabolová, Sarah Schroeder & Aili Tang (2025): Artificial intelligence, hiring and employment: job postings evidence from Sweden. In: Applied Economics Letters, S. 1-6. DOI:10.1080/13504851.2025.2497431

Abstract

"This paper investigates the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on hiring and employment, using the universe of job postings published by the Swedish Public Employment Service from 2014 to 2022 and full-population administrative data for Sweden. We exploit a detailed measure of AI exposure according to occupational content and find that establishments exposed to AI are more likely to hire AI workers. Survey data further indicate that AI exposure aligns with greater use of AI services. Importantly, rather than displacing non-AI workers, AI exposure is positively associated with increased hiring for both AI and non-AI roles. In the absence of substantial productivity gains that might account for this increase, we interpret the positive link between AI exposure and non-AI hiring as evidence that establishments are using AI to augment existing roles and expand task capabilities, rather than to replace non-AI workers." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Engel, Sonja (2025): Kassensturz. Daten, Fakten und Erfahrungen aus der Arbeitswelt des Berliner Einzelhandels. Branchenbericht. Berlin, 45 S.

Abstract

"Dieser Branchenbericht nimmt die Beschäftigung und die Beschäftigten des Berliner Einzelhandels genauer in den Blick. Der Bericht soll Anregung sein für Gespräche – zwischen Kolleg:innen, Arbeitnehmenden, Betriebsräten und Arbeitgebenden, sowie Akteur:innen, die sich in verschiedenen Positionen und in unterschiedlichen (politischen) Institutionen mit dieser Branche befassen. Es werden Daten und Statistiken analysiert, Fakten zusammengetragen und Perspektiven verschiedener Akteur:innen der Branche dargestellt. Er bietet Informationen über die aktuelle Situation und gibt einen Überblick über die Entwicklungen und Trends der vergangenen Jahre, präsentiert Einblicke in die Arbeitsbedingungen der Beschäftigten und die Herausforderungen, mit denen die Branche zu kämpfen hat. Auch der Onlinehandel und die Digitalisierung der Arbeit sowie die Frage des Fachkräftemangels werden genauer betrachtet. Für einen Gastbeitrag konnten wir Sarah Kuhn und Dr. Holger Seibert vom Institut für Arbeitsmarkt- und Berufsforschung (IAB) Berlin-Brandenburg gewinnen, die einen Exkurs zum Thema der Ersetzbarkeit von Tätigkeiten im Einzelhandel durch digitale Technologien präsentieren. Diese Publikation beruht dabei auf der Auswertung verschiedener Quellen: Offizielle Statistiken und Analysen, die von der Bundesagentur für Arbeit und weiteren Institutionen erhoben und veröffentlicht werden, sind eben - so betrachtet worden wie Ergebnisse wissenschaftlicher Untersuchungen und Umfrageergebnisse und Einschätzungen der Sozialpartner. Die Vereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft (ver.di) und die von ihr geleisteten Sonderauswertungen der Daten des DGB-Index für Gute Arbeit liefern wichtige Erkenntnisse für das Verständnis des Arbeitsalltags der Arbeitnehmenden. Der Handelsverband Deutschland (HDE) trägt mit seinen Befragungen und Datenaufbereitungen die Perspektive der Unternehmen und Betriebe bei. Darüber hinaus kommen weitere Akteur:innen zu Wort, mit denen Hintergrundgespräche und Interviews geführt wurden, oder die an den Veranstaltungen des Projekts Joboption Berlin – drei Sozialpartnerdialogen und einem Werkstattgespräch teilgenommen haben." (Textauszug, IAB-Doku)

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Fouarge, Didier, Marie-Christine Fregin, Simon Janssen, Mark Levels, Raymond Montizaan, Pelin Özgül, Nicholas Rounding & Michael Stops (2025): How AI-Augmented Training Improves Worker Productivity. (IZA discussion paper / Forschungsinstitut zur Zukunft der Arbeit 18224), Bonn, 29 S., App.

Abstract

"We analyze the impact of AI-augmented training on worker productivity in a financial services company. The company introduced an AI tool that provides performance feedback on call center agents to guide their training. To estimate causal effects, we exploit the staggered roll out of the AI-tool. The AI-augmented training reduces call handling time by 10 percent. We find larger effects for short-tenured workers because they spend less time putting clients on hold. But the AI-augmented training also improves communication style with relatively stronger effects for long-tenured agents, and we find slightly positive effects on customer satisfaction." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Friedrich, Martin, Ines Helm, Ramona Jost, Julia Lang & Christoph Müller (2025): App-basierte Lieferdienste in Deutschland: Warum Menschen Gig-Work aufnehmen und meist schnell wieder beenden (Serie: „Beschäftigung in der Gig-Ökonomie“). In: IAB-Forum H. 16.04.2025. DOI:10.48720/IAB.FOO.20250416.01

Abstract

"App-basierte Lieferdienste haben sich in den letzten Jahren rasant ausgebreitet. Das hat auch die öffentliche Diskussion um schlechte Arbeitsbedingungen der dort beschäftigten Gig-Worker angefacht. Allerdings gibt es bisher wenige gesicherte Erkenntnisse darüber, was Menschen zur Aufnahme von Gig-Jobs bewegt. Über die Gründe zur Beendigung dieser meist kurzen Jobs ist ebenfalls wenig bekannt. Das IAB bringt mit Ergebnissen einer neuen Befragung Licht in dieses Dunkel." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Friedrich, Martin, Ines Helm, Julia Lang & Christoph Müller (2025): Algorithmisches Management bei App-basierten Lieferdiensten: Fast die Hälfte der betroffenen Gig-Worker fühlt sich dadurch überwacht. In: IAB-Forum H. 23.09.2025. DOI:10.48720/IAB.FOO.20250923.01

Abstract

"Arbeit auf digitalen Plattformen zeichnet sich durch den Einsatz von algorithmischem Management aus. Eine Befragung zeigt, wie Gig-Worker bei App-basierten Lieferdiensten diese Praxis wahrnehmen. Die überwiegende Mehrheit der Gig-Worker gibt an, dass ihre Lieferdienstplattform digitale Arbeitsmittel beispielsweise einsetzt, um ihnen Aufgaben automatisch zuzuweisen und ihren Standort zu verfolgen. Fast die Hälfte der Betroffenen fühlt sich dadurch überwacht." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Gerpott, Fabiola H. & Stephan A. Jansen (2025): Die Arbeit. Wie wir sie mit KI neu erfinden … und was für uns übrig bleibt. Hamburg: brand eins books, 124 S.

Abstract

"Wie wird sich die Arbeitswelt im Zeitalter der künstlichen Intis zwischen dem Menschen und seinen neuen Maschinen – für andere Arbeit, andere Arbeitsteilungen, andere Führung und andere Bildung. Neben Studien aus der Wissenschaft bietet das Buch konkrete Handlungsempfehlungen für ein neues «Human Machine Resource Management», das nicht nur das Personalmanagement, sondern jeden von uns zu einer anregenderen und sinnstiftenderen Arbeit nutzen kann. Und es lädt dazu ein, an der Zukunft der Arbeit aktiv mitzuarbeiten. Zentrale Themen sind unter anderem die ethischen Implikationen, wenn Entscheidungen an Maschinen delegiert werden, die Auswirkungen auf die Diversität und Leistungsfähigkeit der Belegschaft sowie die Neugestaltung von Arbeitsräumen und HR-Prozessen." (Verlagsangaben, IAB-Doku)

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Giebel, Marek & Alexander Lammers (2025): The Impact of a New Workplace Technology on Employees. In: Oxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics, Jg. 87, H. 5, S. 1003-1024. DOI:10.1111/obes.12674

Abstract

"How does the implementation of a new technology affect workers? Using detailed worker-level data for Germany, we analyse the impact of new technologies on non-monetary working conditions such as overtime, training and perceived labor intensity. We show that the strongest effects arise in the first year of their implementation. These effects diminish after the introduction period. We further provide evidence that the impact of technology adoption varies across diverse occupational and industrial contexts. Workers in occupations with a higher task substitution potential show stronger increases in overtime, training measures and labor intensity. Analyzing industry characteristics, we find that employees exposed to a new technology react more strongly in industries with higher business dynamics in terms of organisational capital and R&D investment. Extending these considerations to information and communication technology (ICT) usage, we show that new technologies exert stronger effects in industries with high investment in ICT equipment or low investment in software." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Giering, Oliver & Stefan Kirchner (2025): Artificial intelligence and autonomy at work: empirical insights from Germany. In: Journal for labour market research, Jg. 59. DOI:10.1186/s12651-025-00401-5

Abstract

"Artificial intelligence (AI) is a prominent topic regarding the digitalisation of work and its diffusion is expected to radically change job quality. Overall, there exists a large discrepancy between discursive expectations and quantitative empirical evidence. In this article, we use a novel module from the German Socio-Economic Panel to examine the overall prevalence of AI at work, the determinants that increase the likelihood of AI use, and its association with autonomy. The results show that 38% of German workers use AI, and AI use is associated with the use of specific digital technologies. Workers in high-level, non-routine occupations are more likely to use AI, particularly in comparison to manual workers. Moreover, the association between AI and autonomy is merely superficial and cannot be properly evaluated without considering workplace preconditions." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Giuntella, Osea, Johannes Konig & Luca Stella (2025): Artificial intelligence and the wellbeing of workers. In: Scientific Reports, Jg. 15, H. 1. DOI:10.1038/s41598-025-98241-3

Abstract

"This study explores the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and workers’ well-being and healthusing longitudinal survey data from Germany (2000–2020). Using a measure of occupational exposure to AI, we explore an event study design and a difference-in-differences approach to compare AI-exposed and non-exposed workers. Before AI became widely available, there is no evidence of differential pre­trends in workers’ well-being and health. We findno evidence of a sizeable negative impact of AI on workers’ well-being and mental health. If anything, there is evidence of an improvement in health status and health satisfaction, which may be explained by the decline in job physical intensity. Overall, our results are consistent with the lack of negative effects of AI on the labor markets." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Gmyrek, Pawel, Christoph Lutz & Gemma Newlands (2025): A technological construction of society: Comparing GPT-4 and human respondents for occupational evaluation in the UK. In: BJIR, Jg. 63, H. 1, S. 180-208. DOI:10.1111/bjir.12840

Abstract

"Despite initial research about the biases and perceptions of large language models (LLMs), we lack evidence on how LLMs evaluate occupations, especially in comparison to human evaluators. In this paper, we present a systematic comparison of occupational evaluations by GPT-4 with those from an in-depth, high-quality and recent human respondents survey in the UK. Covering the full ISCO-08 occupational landscape, with 580 occupations and two distinct metrics (prestige and social value), our findings indicate that GPT-4 and human scores are highly correlated across all ISCO-08 major groups. At the same time, GPT-4 substantially under- or overestimates the occupational prestige and social value of many occupations, particularly for emerging digital and stigmatized or illicit occupations. Our analyses show both the potential and risk of using LLM-generated data for sociological and occupational research. We also discuss the policy implications of our findings for the integration of LLM tools into the world of work." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, Published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons) ((en))

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Gmyrek, Pawel, Janine Berg, Karol Kamiński, Filip Konopczyński, Agnieszka Ładna, Balint Nafradi, Konrad Rosłaniec & Marek Troszyński (2025): Generative AI and jobs. A refined global index of occupational exposure. (ILO working paper / International Labour Organization 140), Geneva, 72 S. DOI:10.54394/hetp0387

Abstract

"This study updates the ILO’s 2023 Global Index of Occupational Exposure to Generative AI (GenAI), incorporating recent advances in the technology and increasing user familiarity with GenAI tools. Using a representative sample from the 29,753 tasks in the Polish occupational classification system and a survey of 1,640 people employed in each 1-digit ISCO-08 groups, we collect 52,558 data points regarding perceive potential of automation for 2,861 tasks. We then compare this input with a survey and several rounds of Delphi-style discussions among a smaller group of international experts. Based on this process, we create a repository of knowledge about task automation that goes beyond national specificities and use it to develop an AI assistant able to predict scores for tasks in the technical documentation of ISCO-08. Our 2025 scores are presented in a revised framework of four progressively increasing exposure gradients, with a new set of global estimates of employment shares exposed to GenAI. Clerical occupations continue to have the highest exposure levels. Additionally, some strongly digitized occupations have increased exposure, highlighting the expanding abilities of GenAI regarding specialized tasks in professional and technical roles. Globally, one in four workers are in an occupation with some GenAI exposure. 3.3% of global employment falls into the highest exposure category, albeit with significant differences between female (4.7%) and male employment (2.4%). These differences increase with countries’ income (9.6% female vs 3.5% male in Gradient 4in HICs), and so does the overall exposure (11% of total employment in LICs vs 34% in HICs). As most occupations consist of tasks that require human input, transformation of jobs is the most likely impact of GenAI. Linking our refined index with national micro data enables precise projections of such transformations, offering a foundation for social dialogue and targeted policy responses to manage the transition." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Golboyz, Mark (2025): Governing the Digital Transition: The Moderating Effect of Unemployment Benefits on Technology‐Induced Employment Outcomes. In: Social Inclusion, Jg. 13. DOI:10.17645/si.10114

Abstract

"The digital transition shapes work in numerous ways. For instance, by affecting employment structures. To ensure that the digital transition results in better employment opportunities in terms of socio-economic status, labor markets have to be guided appropriately. The European Pillar of Social Rights can be the political framework to foster access to employment and tackle inequalities that result from the digital transition. Current research primarily examines scenarios of occupational upgrading and employment polarisation. In the empirical literature, there is no consensus on which of these developments prevail. Findings vary between countries and across different study periods. Accordingly, this article provides a theoretical explanation for the conditions under which occupational upgrading and employment polarization become more likely. Further, this article examines how the use of information and communication technology (ICT) capital in the production of goods and services affects the socio-economic status of individuals and, more importantly, whether unemployment benefits moderate this effect. Methodologically, the article uses multilevel maximum likelihood regression models with an empirical focus on 12 European countries and 19 industries. The analysis is based on data from the European Labour Force Survey (EU-LFS), the European Union Level Analysis of Capital, Labour, Energy, Materials, and Service Inputs (EU-KLEMS) research project, and the Comparative Welfare Entitlements Project (CWEP). The results of the article indicate that generous unemployment benefits are associated with occupational upgrading. This implies that educational and vocational labor market policies need to be developed to prevent the under-skilled from being left behind and to enable these groups to benefit from the digital transition. Consequently, it is not only the extent to which work involves routine tasks or the skills of workers that determine how technological change affects employment, but also social rights shape employment through unemployment benefits." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Greenan, Nathalie, Dario Guarascio & Jelena Reljic (2025): AI and the labour market: opening the black box. In: Eurasian business review, Jg. 15, H. 4, S. 925-951. DOI:10.1007/s40821-025-00324-8

Abstract

"This work aims at discussing some of the main (open) questions about the labour impact of AI technologies. First, we provide an in-depth literature review focusing on concepts and measurement approaches and distinguishing between up (invention and knowledge creation), mid (technological innovation and development) and downstream (adoption and diffusion) components of the AI value chain. Second, we summarise the six articles included in the Special Issue ‘AI and labor markets: opening the black box’, distinguishing between contributions focusing on AI exposure, occupations and skill demand; the relationship between AI and automation technologies and their impact on income distribution; and, finally, the effect on organisational structures, management practices, and power dynamics within workplaces. Our analysis emphasises that AI’s employment effects are neither predetermined nor uniform, but shaped by implementation contexts, organisational choices, and institutional frameworks. We find that heterogeneity matters at multiple levels—across countries, sectors, firms, and demographic groups—challenging deterministic narratives and highlighting the need for adaptive policy responses that recognise these asymmetries." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Guarascio, Dario & Jelena Reljic (2025): AI and employment in Europe. In: Economics Letters, Jg. 247. DOI:10.1016/j.econlet.2025.112183

Abstract

"This paper contributes to the growing research on AI's labor market impact by presenting novel evidence on the heterogeneous employment effects of AI across EU countries from 2012 to 2022. While concerns persist about AI's disruptive potential, our findings show that occupations more exposed to AI technologies experience stronger employment growth, all else being equal. However, these effects are not uniform across the EU. Positive employment outcomes are concentrated in Innovation Leaders (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands and Sweden) and Strong Innovators (Austria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Ireland and Luxembourg), emphasizing the context-dependent nature of AI's impact. These findings reflect the uneven distribution of innovation capabilities, with a country's innovation system and ‘absorptive capacity’ playing a crucial role in fully harnessing AI's potential for employment (and economic) growth. Ultimately, this research challenges the notion of AI as universally beneficial or harmful, highlighting its asymmetric effects across countries and occupations." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2025 Elsevier B.V. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.) ((en))

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Guarascio, Dario, Jelena Reljic & Roman Stöllinger (2025): Diverging paths: AI exposure and employment across European regions. In: Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Jg. 73, S. 11-24. DOI:10.1016/j.strueco.2024.12.010

Abstract

"This study explores exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and employment patterns in Europe. First, we provide a thorough mapping of European regions focusing on the structural factors—such as sectoral specialisation, R&D capacity, productivity and workforce skills—that may shape diffusion as well as economic and employment effects of AI. To capture these differences, we conduct a cluster analysis which group EU regions in four distinct clusters: high-tech service and capital centres, advanced manufacturing core, southern and eastern periphery. We then discuss potential employment implications of AI in these regions, arguing that while regions with strong innovation systems may experience employment gains as AI complements existing capabilities and production systems, others are likely to face structural barriers that could eventually exacerbate regional disparities in the EU, with peripheral areas losing further ground." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V.) ((en))

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Guarascio, Dario, Alessandro Piccirillo & Jelena Reljic (2025): Robots vs. Workers: Evidence From a Meta‐Analysis. In: Journal of Economic Surveys, Jg. 39, H. 5, S. 2254-2271. DOI:10.1111/joes.12699

Abstract

"This study conducts a meta-analysis to assess the effects of robotization on employment and wages, synthesizing the evidence from 33 studies (644 estimates) on employment and a subset of 19 studies (195 estimates) on wages. The results challenge the alarmist narrative about the risk of widespread technological unemployment, suggesting that the overall relationship between robotization and employment or wages is minimal. However, the effects are far from uniform, with adverse outcomes observed in specific contexts, such as the United States, manufacturing sectors, and middle-skilled occupations. The analysis also identifies a publication bias favoring negative wage effects, though correcting for this bias confirms the negligible impact of robotization." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Hacker, Winfried (2025): Auswirkungen von KI auf die Nutzer: Erhalten und Fördern der menschlichen Intelligenz bei zunehmendem Einsatz künstlicher Intelligenz - Wozu? Wie? (baua: Fokus), Dortmund, 6 S. DOI:10.21934/baua:fokus20251218

Abstract

"Die Entwicklung der KI verändert die Anforderungen an die menschliche Intelligenz: Denkleistungen können überflüssig werden. Dadurch kann eine arbeitsbedingte Dequalifizierung der Arbeitenden entstehen, denen jedoch die Kontrolle und Korrektur der KI-Ergebnisse obliegt, wofür diese Denkleistungen benötigt werden. Auswege sind die "Zusammenarbeit" von KI und Mensch sowie insbesondere einfache Maßnahmen zum Erhalten der Denkfähigkeit im Arbeitsprozess, die dargestellt werden." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Hall, Anja & Ana Santiago Vela (2025): Arbeiten mit Künstlicher Intelligenz, aber auch mit Köpfchen. Anforderungen an Future Skills in der Erwerbsarbeit. In: Berufsbildung in Wissenschaft und Praxis H. 4, S. 21-25.

Abstract

"Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) verändert nicht nur, was wir arbeiten, sondern auch wie. Auf Basis der BIBB/BAuA-Erwerbstätigenbefragung 2024 zeigt der Beitrag die aktuelle Verbreitung von KI auf dem Arbeitsmarkt. KI wird vor allem in kognitiv-analytischen und interaktiven Nichtroutinetätigkeiten genutzt und geht mit Anforderungen an Future Skills wie Probleme lösen, Wissenslücken schließen, kreativ sein oder überzeugen einher. Damit rücken im Kontext von KI neben fachlichen Anforderungen auch überfachliche Kompetenzen stärker in den Fokus. Berufliche Handlungskompetenz ist daher weiterhin gezielt zu fördern." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Hammermann, Andrea & Louisa Kürten (2025): Generative KI: Schritt halten durch gezielte Kompetenzentwicklung. (IW-Kurzberichte / Institut der Deutschen Wirtschaft Köln 2025,24), Köln, 3 S.

Abstract

"Der Einsatz von generativer Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) transformiert die Arbeitswelt in einem rasanten Tempo. Eine wichtige Säule zur Ausschöpfung der möglichen KI-Potenziale sind das Wissen und die Anwendungskompetenz von Beschäftigten. Weiterbildung und das Lernen am Arbeitsplatz gewinnen vor diesem Hintergrund an Bedeutung." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Hampole, Menaka, Dimitris Papanikolaou, Lawrence D. W. Schmidt & Bryan Seegmiller (2025): Artificial Intelligence and the Labor Market. (NBER working paper / National Bureau of Economic Research 33509), Cambridge, Mass, 58 S.

Abstract

"We leverage recent advances in NLP to construct measures of workers' task exposure to AI and machine learning technologies over the 2010 to 2023 period that vary across firms and time. Using a theoretical framework that allows for a labor-saving technology to affect worker productivity both directly and indirectly, we show that the impact on wage earnings and employment can be summarized by two statistics. First, labor demand decreases in the average exposure of workers' tasks to AI technologies; second, holding the average exposure constant, labor demand increases in the dispersion of task exposures to AI, as workers shift effort to tasks that are not displaced by AI. Exploiting exogenous variation in our measures based on pre-existing hiring practices across firms, we find empirical support for these predictions, together with a lower demand for skills affected by AI. Overall, we find muted effects of AI on employment due to offsetting effects: highly-exposed occupations experience relatively lower demand compared to less exposed occupations, but the resulting increase in firm productivity increases overall employment across all occupations." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Hausman, Naomi, Oren Rigbi & Sarit Weisburd (2025): Generative AI's Impact on Student Achievement and Implications for Worker Productivity. (CESifo working paper 11843), München, 39 S.

Abstract

"Student use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education is reshaping learning and redefining the skills of future workers. Using student-course data from a top Israeli university, we examine the impact of generative AI tools on academic performance. Comparisons across more and less AI-compatible courses before and after ChatGPT's introduction show that AI availability raises grades, especially for lower-performing students, and compresses the grade distribution, eroding the signal value of grades for employers. Evidence suggests gains in AI-specific human capital but possible losses in traditional human capital, highlighting benefits and costs AI may impose on future workforce productivity." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Heyer, Philipp, Kathrin Weis, Sabine Mohr & Wiebke Schmitz (2025): Alter(n) im Betrieb: Stereotype Altersbilder, Fachkräftemangel und digitale Transformation. (BIBB-Report 2025,05), Leverkusen: Verlag Barbara Budrich, 16 S.

Abstract

"Against the backdrop of demographic change, age-appropriate human resources policies are becoming increasingly important. Nevertheless, negative age stereotypes continue to prevail in many firms, hindering the recruitment and further training of older employees – and thus leaving existing skilled labor potential untapped. Based on current data from the establishment survey “BIBB Establishment Panel on Training andCompetence Development,” this BIBB Report analyzes stereotypical images of age in firms as well as company characteristics that promote the employment of older people. Particular attention is given to the role of digital technologies. The results show that the perceptions of older employees vary depending on the industry, firm size, and use of technology. A positive perception is associated with higher employment rates of older people. However, older employees are less strongly represented in firms with above-average use of digital technologies. Based on these findings, it is recommended to counteract age stereotypes, provide targeted further training for older employees, and actively involve them in digital work processes. An age-appropriate human resources policy not only strengthens the supply of skilled workers, but also diversity and, ultimately, the productivity of firms." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Humlum, Anders & Emilie Vestergaard (2025): Large Language Models, Small Labor Market Effects. (BFI Working Papers / University of Chicago, Becker Friedman Institute for Research in Economics 2025,56), Chicago, 64 S. DOI:10.2139/ssrn.5219933

Abstract

"We examine the labor market effects of AI chatbots using two large-scale adoption surveys (late 2023 and 2024) covering 11 exposed occupations (25,000 workers, 7,000 workplaces), linked to matched employer-employee data in Denmark. AI chatbots are now widespread —most employers encourage their use, many deploy in-house models, andtraining initiatives are common. These firm-led investments boost adoption, narrow demographic gaps in take-up, enhance workplace utility, and create new job tasks. Yet, despite substantial investments, economic impacts remain minimal. Using difference-in-differences and employer policies as quasi-experimental variation, we estimate precise zeros: AI chatbots have had no significant impact on earnings or recorded hours in any occupation, with confidence intervals ruling out effects larger than 1%. Modest productivity gains (average time savings of 3%), combined with weak wage pass-through, help explain these limited labor market effects. Our findings challenge narratives of imminent labor market transformation due to Generative AI." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Jaccoud, Florencia (2025): Robots & AI exposure and wage inequality: a within occupation approach. In: Eurasian business review, Jg. 15, H. 4, S. 1035-1090. DOI:10.1007/s40821-025-00306-w

Abstract

"This paper examines the linkages between occupational exposure to recent automation technologies and inequality across 19 European countries. Using data from the European Union Structure of Earnings Survey (EU-SES), a fixed-effects model is employed to assess the association between occupational exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) and to industrial robots–two distinct forms of automation–and within-occupation wage inequality. The analysis reveals that occupations with higher exposure to robots tend to have lower wage inequality, particularly among workers in the lower half of the wage distribution. In contrast, occupations more exposed to AI exhibit greater wage dispersion, especially at the top of the wage distribution. We argue that this disparity arises from differences in how each technology complements individual worker abilities: robot-related tasks often complement routine physical activities, while AI-related tasks tend to amplify the productivity of high-skilled, cognitively intensive work." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Jacobs, Arthur & Freddy Heylen (2025): Demographic change, secular stagnation, and inequality: automation as a blessing? In: Journal of demographic economics, Jg. 91, H. 4, S. 508-548. DOI:10.1017/dem.2024.10

Abstract

"We study whether the increased adoption of available automation technologies allows economies to avoid the negative effect of aging on per capita output. We develop a quantitative theory in which firms choose to which extent they automate in response to a declining workforce and rising old-age dependency. An important element in our model is the integration of two capital types: automation capital that acts as a substitute to human labor, and traditional capital that is a complement to labor. Empirically, our model's predictions largely match data regarding automation (robotization) density across OECD countries. Simulating the model, we find that aging-induced automation only partially compensates the negative growth effect of aging in the absence of technical progress in automation technology. One reason is that automated tasks are no perfect substitutes for non-automated tasks. A second reason is that automation raises the interest rate and thus inhibits positive behavioral reactions to aging (later retirement and investment in human capital). Moreover, increased automation generates a falling net labor share of income and rising welfare inequality. We evaluate alternative policy responses to cope with this inequality." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Janssen, Simon, Christina Langer, Markus Nagler, Nicholas Rounding, Michael Stops & Simon Wiederhold (2025): Wie lässt sich die Nachfrage nach KI- und anderen Kompetenzen auf dem Arbeitsmarkt besser messen? (ROA external reports / Researchcentrum voor Onderwijs en Arbeidsmarkt (Maastricht) 10 ai:conomics policybrief), Maastricht, 6 S.

Abstract

"Eine umfangreiche Forschungsliteratur zeigt, dass der technologische Wandel erhebliche Auswirkungen auf die Arbeitsmärkte hat, da moderne digitale Technologien die Nachfrage nach bestimmten Kompetenzen verändern. Zum einen können neue Technologien einige menschliche Tätigkeiten ersetzen. Zum anderen Seite können sie neue Tätigkeiten schaffen oder ergänzen (Acemoglu et al., 2015; Acemoglu & Restrepo, 2018, 2019, 2020). Mit der starken Verbreitung Künstlicher Intelligenz in den letzten Jahren gewinnen bestimmte Fragen in der öffentlichen Diskussion und der Forschung zunehmend an Bedeutung: Wächst die Arbeitsnachfrage nach KI-Kompetenzen auch auf dem deutschen Arbeitsmarkt? Führt die steigende Nachfrage nach KI-Kompetenzen dazu, dass andere Kompetenzen – bei niedrig-, mittel- und hochqualifizierten Arbeitskräften – weniger gefragt sind? Ziel dieses Forschungsprojekts ist es, eine belastbare Datengrundlage zu schaffen, um solche Fragen in Zukunft fundierter beantworten zu können. Die Entwicklungen bei generativer Künstlicher Intelligenz, insbesondere von Tools wie ChatGPT, hat die Diskussion über die Auswirkungen von KI auf den Arbeitsmarkt sowohl in der Wissenschaft als auch in der öffentlichen Debatte und in der Politik deutlich verstärkt. Während Computer und Software die Arbeitswelt durch die präzisere und effizientere Ausführung routinemäßiger Aufgaben verändert haben, können moderne KI-Systeme nun komplexe, nichtroutinemäßige Aufgaben übernehmen, ohne auf detaillierte Anweisungen oder wiederholende Regeln angewiesen zu sein (Brynjolfsson et al., 2025). Infolgedessen sehen viele das produktive Potenzial dieser neuen Technologie optimistisch. Andere hingegen befürchten, dass KI die Arbeitsmärkte disruptiv verändern könnte." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Janssen, Simon, Christina Langer, Markus Nagler, Nicholas Rounding, Michael Stops & Simon Wiederhold (2025): How can we better measure the demand for AI and other skills on the labour market? (ROA external reports / Researchcentrum voor Onderwijs en Arbeidsmarkt (Maastricht) 10 ai:conomics policybrief), Maastricht, 5 S.

Abstract

"A large body of research literature shows that technological change has a significant impact on labour markets, as modern digital technologies are changing the demand for certain skills. On the one hand, new technologies can replace some human activities. On the other hand, they can create or complement new activities (Acemoglu et al., 2015; Acemoglu & Restrepo, 2018, 2019, 2020). With the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) in recent years, certain questions are becoming increasingly important in public debate and research: Is the demand for AI skills also growing on the German labour market? Does the increasing demand for AI skills mean that other skills - among low, medium and highly qualified workers - are less in demand? The aim of this research project is to create a reliable data basis in order to be able to answer such questions in a more informed way in the future. Developments in generative AI, particularly tools such as ChatGPT, have significantly intensified the discussion about the impact of AI on the labour market, both in academia and in public debate and policy. While computers and software have transformed the world of work by performing routine tasks more precisely and efficiently, modern AI systems can now take on complex, non-routine tasks without relying on detailed instructions or repetitive rules (Brynjolfsson et al., 2025). As a result, many are optimistic about the productive potential of this new technology. Others, however, fear that AI could disrupt labour markets. In the course of the intensive scientific and public debate on AI, there is a growing body of literature that deals with the effects of AI on labour markets. These initially focus on specific occupations such as call centre workers (Brynjolfsson et al., 2025, Dijksman et al., 2024), consultants (Dell’ et al., 2023), writers or developers (Peng et al., 2023). However, a major challenge is to measure how the demand for and supply of skills has changed in the wake of the emergence of AI." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Janssen, Simon, Michael Stops, Sanne Steens, Pelin Özgül, Nicholas Rounding, Sander Dijksman, Raymond Montizaan, Mark Levels, Didier Fourage, Danique Eijkenboom, Evie Graus & Marie-Christine Fregin (2025): Artificial intelligence in the workplace: insights into the transformation of customer services. In: IAB-Forum H. 22.04.2025, 2025-04-22. DOI:10.48720/IAB.FOO.20250422.01

Abstract

"How does the use of artificial intelligence in training affect employee productivity? These and other questions were investigated as part of the long-term research project “ai:conomics” using company data from various large European companies. Initial results suggest that AI can have a positive impact on employee productivity, especially for new employees." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Khabirpour, Neysan, Lorenzo Pelizzari, Jan Limbers, Markus Hoch, Philipp Kreuzer, Matteo Richiardi, Patryk Bronka & Costanza Pagnini (2025): Overlapping crises (re)shaping the future of regional labour markets [OVERLAP]. Main Report. Luxembourg: ESPON 2030, 101 S.

Abstract

"Europe’s labour market is entering a decade in which structural forces converge and pull unevenly on every region. First, the demographic change is steadily thinning the labour supply: by 2050, the EU’s labour force is set to decrease by 35 million people. (Secondly) This demographic transition comes at a time when Member States are increasing their efforts to achieve the decarbonization targets, and (thirdly) when they are ramping up investments to digitalise the economy. While the digital transition is accelerating demand for specialised skills faster than workers can acquire them, the green transition suggests both disruption and expansion. To deliver the REPowerEU targets, the Commission estimates that more than 3.5 million additional jobs will be needed by 2030. Explained very shortly, these interacting factors may amplify long-standing territorial disparities in age structure, industrial fabric and human-capital endowment. Understanding where labour will transform and where new demand will arise is therefore indispensable. It is precisely this spatial intelligence that the OVERLAP project supplies—by charting the possible employment trajectories of every NUTS-3 labour market – for the 2035 perspective - under a varied set of assumptions, driven by policy or shock. This is done within a scenario-driven exercise, covering ageing, green ambition and digital diffusion. In doing so, as a forward-looking exercise, the study equips policymakers with the granular evidence needed to anticipate potential shortages, target up- and reskilling investments, and steer and match transition funding to address local needs and the regions that need it most. The study starts from two overarching objectives: Compile a granular portrait of Europe’s regional labour markets by tracing demographic dynamics and their (possible) implications for employment trends, at NUTS-3 level, out to 2035. Gauge how major drivers—including population change and the twin digital-green transition—may reshape labour demand under a range of forward-looking (possible) scenarios, out to 2035. From these aims, flow the main guiding research questions: which territories and sectors are set to gain or lose employment as ageing, automation and decarbonisation unfold simultaneously? And what policy mixes can cushion vulnerable regions while helping them capture new growth niches? Addressing these questions across the ESPON space—i.e. all EU Member States plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland—requires a geography-sensitive lens; hence results are mapped down to individual NUTS-3 regions. To deliver evidence at that resolution, the project combined a dual analytical architecture. Quantify and regionalise macro-trends: the top-down stream employs the DINOS dynamic input-output model (developed by PROGNOS) to translate demographic, technological and climate-policy shocks into sectoral employment and wage shifts, then regionalises these outputs to the full NUTS-3 grid. The macro-level modelling strategy begins with national economic aggregates, traces broad structural trends across industries, and subsequently disaggregates the resulting labour-market effects to individual regions. By working from the “whole economy” downward, this framework captures systemic interactions—such as supply-chain spill-overs—beyond the reach of purely regional models. Provide a micro-analytical perspective: in parallel, the bottom-up stream extends the SimPaths dynamic microsimulation platform—already validated for the United Kingdom as a baseline —to Greece, Hungary, Italy and, enriching the macro picture with individual life-course trajectories. This novel, regional, micro-analytical framework sheds additional light on the distributional impact of the ongoing economic and social transformations, going beyond the broad picture and simplified assumptions that had to be made in the top-down approach (macro-analyses). The dynamic framework integrates a defining feature in every simulated period: inputs from a static tax-benefit calculator (EURO-MOD), hence allowing to study to what extent tax and benefit systems can smooth out transitional dynamics. However, it is important to highlight from the onset, that this study should not be perceived as a crystal globe, as it does not cover all possible shocks or situations, but acts upon the accumulated knowledge, in order to provide some modelled scenarios that are aimed at informing and opening the forward-looking strategies, with a pre-emptive component." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Klonek, Florian & Sharon Parker (2025): Does AI at Work Increase Stress? Text Mining Social Media About Human–AI Team Processes and AI Control. In: Journal of organizational behavior, S. 1-15. DOI:10.1002/job.70000

Abstract

"With rising use of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizations, alongside increasing mental health issues, we seek to understand how AI use affects human stress. Drawing on the automation–augmentation perspective, we propose that AI control over decision-making thwarts human autonomy and thus contributes to stress. Drawing on models of teamwork and augmentation, we expect that human–AI team processes (i.e., transition, action, and interpersonal processes) help people meet their goals and reduce stress. Finally, we argue that human–AI team processes provide an important social resource, which buffers the stress-enhancing role of AI control. To test our hypotheses, we analyzed over 2700 tweets. Using a trained large language model, validated against human ratings, we indexed key measures. Results confirm that high AI control was associated with increased stress, whereas human–AI team processes were associated with decreased stress. In support of the moderation hypothesis, two human–AI team processes (action and interpersonal) helped further reduce the stress-enhancing effect of AI control. We discuss implications for work design theory and the importance of regulating levels of AI control to protect workers' mental health." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Koch, Christian & Michael Stops (2025): KI Navigator #10: Wie KI dem Arbeitsmarkt hilft. In: Heise online, 2025-03-14.

Abstract

"Stellenanzeigen können viel über den Wandel des Arbeitsmarkts verraten. Künstliche Intelligenz hilft dabei, diese Daten zu interpretieren."

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Kowalik, Zuzanna, Piotr Lewandowski, Tomasz Geodecki & Maciej Grodzicki (2025): Automation in shared service centres: Implications for skills and autonomy. In: The Economic and Labour Relations Review, Jg. 36, H. 2, S. 563-581. DOI:10.1017/elr.2025.10026

Abstract

"The offshoring-fueled growth of the Central and Eastern European business services sector gave rise to shared service centers (SSCs) – quasi-autonomous entities providing routine-intensive tasks for the central organization. The advent of technologies such as intelligent process automation, robotic process automation, and artificial intelligence jeopardises SSCs’ employment model, necessitating workers’ skills adaptation. The study challenges the deskilling hypothesis and reveals that automation in the Polish SSCs is conducive to upskilling and worker autonomy. Drawing on 31 in-depth interviews, we highlight the negotiated nature of automation processes shaped by interactions between headquarters, SSCs, and their workers. Workers actively participated in automation processes, eliminating the most mundane tasks. This resulted in upskilling, higher job satisfaction, and empowerment. Yet, this phenomenon heavily depends upon the fact that automation is triggered by labor shortages, which limit the expansion of SSCs. This situation encourages companies to leverage the specific expertise entrenched in their existing workforce. The study underscores the importance of fostering employee-driven automation and upskilling initiatives for overall job satisfaction and quality." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Krzywdzinski, Martin, Daniel Schneiß & Andrea Sperling (2025): Between control and participation: The politics of algorithmic management. In: New Technology, Work and Employment, Jg. 40, H. 1, S. 60-80. DOI:10.1111/ntwe.12293

Abstract

"Understanding the role of human management is crucial for the debate over algorithmic management—to date limited to studies on the platform economy. This qualitative case study in logistics reconstructs the actor constellations (managers, engineers, data scientists and workers) and negotiation processes in different phases of algorithmic management. It offers two major contributions to the literature: (1) a process model distinguishing three phases: goal formation, data production and data analysis, which is used to analyse (2) the politics of algorithmic management in conventional workplaces, which differ significantly from platform companies. The article goes beyond surveillance to elucidate the role of the regulatory framework, various actors' knowledge contributions to the algorithmic management system, and the power relations resulting therefrom. While the managerial goals in the examined case were not oriented towards a surveillance regime, the outcome was nevertheless a centralisation of knowledge and disempowerment of workers." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

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Kuhlmann, Martin, Britta Matthes & Stefan Theuer (2025): Das Produktionsmodell der deutschen Automobilindustrie auf dem Prüfstand. Arbeitsstrukturen und Arbeitsanforderungen in Montagewerken im Wandel? (SOFI-Impulspapier), Göttingen, 6 S.

Abstract

"Das in den 1980er-Jahren etablierte Produktionsmodell der deutschen Automobilhersteller lässt sich beschreiben als innovations- und exportorientierte Produktion qualitativ hochwertiger Produkte auf Basis qualifizierter Arbeit, guter Bezahlung und hoher Beschäftigungssicherheit sowie starken gewerkschaftlichen Interessenvertretungen. Politische Vorgaben, wie die Umstellung auf die Produktion von Elektroautos, veränderte Wettbewerbsbedingungen sowie die weiter voranschreitende Digitalisierung haben dazu geführt, dass dieses Produktionsmodell derzeit auf dem Prüfstand steht. Getrieben durch aufkommende Zweifel an der technologischen Überlegenheit deutscher Automobilhersteller und Nachfrageschwächen beim Übergang auf Elektromobilität ist die Unsicherheit in der Branche gegenwärtig groß. In einem laufenden Forschungsprojekt untersuchen wir, inwiefern sich durch die Produktion von Elektroautos und die fortschreitende Digitalisierung Arbeitsstrukturen und Arbeitsanforderungen in den Endmontagewerken der deutschen Automobilhersteller verändert haben und ob sich arbeitsbezogen ein Wandel des deutschen Produktionsmodells abzeichnet." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Kuhn, Sarah & Holger Seibert (2025): Digitale Ersetzbarkeit im stationären Einzelhandel und im Onlinehandel. Gastbeitrag. In: ArbeitGestalten Beratungsgesellschaft mbH (Hrsg.) (2025): Kassensturz. Daten, Fakten und Erfahrungen aus der Arbeitswelt des Berliner Einzelhandels, S. 29-31, 2025-09-30.

Abstract

"Diese Analyse zeigt, dass nicht alle Beschäftigten im stationären Einzelhandel und im Onlinehandel gleichermaßen von der digitalen Transformation betroffen sind bzw. sein werden. Wichtig zu betonen ist, dass es hier um Potenziale technischer Ersetzbarkeit geht. Ob und inwiefern die technischen Möglichkeiten auch tatsächlich umgesetzt werden, hängt von verschiedenen Faktoren ab. Es kann Gründe geben, die gegen eine tatsächliche Substituierung sprechen, beispielsweise weil eine Umstellung zu komplex wäre oder ethische Bedenken dem entgegenstehen. Unstrittig ist jedoch, dass auf der einen Seite einige Tätigkeiten durch die Digitalisierung wegfallen bzw. automatisiert werden, andererseits aber auch neue Tätigkeiten und Berufe entstehen. Daher kann ein hohes Substituierungspotenzial als Indikator für einen Wandel der Arbeitswelt gesehen werden." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

Zitatform

Kuhn, Sarah & Holger Seibert (2025): Digitalisierung der Arbeitswelt: Durch künstliche Intelligenz sind inzwischen auch viele Expertentätigkeiten ersetzbar. (IAB-Regional. Berichte und Analysen aus dem Regionalen Forschungsnetz. IAB Berlin-Brandenburg 01/2025), 34 S. DOI:10.48720/IAB.REBB.2501

Abstract

"Durch neue digitale Technologien verändert sich der deutsche Arbeitsmarkt. Dies gilt besonders für das Ausmaß, in dem Berufe aktuell potenziell durch den Einsatz von Computern oder computergesteuerten Maschinen ersetzbar sind, dem so genannten Substituierbarkeitspotenzial. Es beschreibt, welcher Anteil an Tätigkeiten in einem Beruf schon heute durch den Einsatz moderner Technologien ersetzt werden könnte. Nach wie vor ist zwar das Substituierbarkeitspotenzial bei den Helfer*innen- und Fachkraftberufen am höchsten. Am stärksten gestiegen ist das Potenzial jedoch bei den Expert*innenberufen (u. a. durch generative Künstliche Intelligenz). Besonders bei den IT- und naturwissenschaftlichen Dienstleistungsberufen sind hohe Zuwachsraten zwischen 2019 und 2022 zu verzeichnen. Der vorliegende Beitrag fokussiert sich auf den Arbeitsmarkt in Brandenburg und Berlin. Wichtig zu betonen ist, dass es hier um Potenziale technischer Ersetzbarkeit geht. Ob und inwiefern die technischen Möglichkeiten auch tatsächlich umgesetzt werden, steht nicht fest. Es kann Gründe geben, die gegen eine tatsächliche Substituierung sprechen, beispielsweise weil eine Umstellung zu komplex wäre oder ethische Bedenken dem entgegenstehen. Unstrittig ist jedoch, dass auf der einen Seite einige Tätigkeiten durch die Digitalisierung wegfallen bzw. automatisiert werden, andererseits aber auch neue Tätigkeiten und Berufe entstehen. Daher kann ein hohes Substituierungspotenzial als Indikator für einen Wandel der Arbeitswelt gesehen werden." (Autorenreferat, IAB-Doku)

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Kunze, Florian, Carolina Opitz & Ann Sophie Lauterbach (2025): Konstanzer KI-Studie 2025: Die Nutzung von Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Arbeitswelt steigt, Ungleichheiten in der Wahrnehmung bleiben weiterhin bestehen. Ergebnisbericht Juli 2025. Konstanz: KOPS Universität Konstanz, 8 S.

Abstract

"Die Nutzung von KI in der Arbeitswelt hat innerhalb eines Jahres deutlich zugenommen – gleichzeitig bleiben erhebliche Unterschiede zwischen Berufsgruppen, Bildungsniveaus und Unternehmen bestehen. In der zweiten Welle der Konstanzer KI-Studie berichten 35?% der Befragten von KI-Nutzung im Arbeitsalltag, ein Anstieg um 11 Prozentpunkte gegenüber dem Vorjahr. Trotz dieses Wachstums bleibt die Unsicherheit hoch: Ein Drittel der Beschäftigten kann weiterhin nicht einschätzen, welche Folgen KI für die eigene Arbeit haben wird. Zugleich wird der gesellschaftliche Einfluss von Automatisierung deutlich bedrohlicher wahrgenommen als die persönliche Betroffenheit. Besonders stark ist der Nutzungszuwachs in wissensintensiven Berufen, während produktionsnahe Tätigkeiten kaum aufholen. Auch die Kluft zwischen Bildungsgruppen bleibt bestehen: Beschäftigte mit hohem Bildungsabschluss nutzen KI mehr als dreimal so häufig wie jene mit niedrigem Abschluss. Zwar steigt die Bereitschaft zur Weiterbildung in allen Gruppen, strukturelle Hürden scheinen jedoch eine Angleichung zu verhindern. Auf Ebene der Organisationen verlaufen die Entwicklungen deutlich langsamer als auf individueller Ebene. Vor allem große Unternehmen investieren zunehmend in Weiterbildung und Führungskommunikation, während kleinere Organisationen kaum Veränderungen zeigen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen deutlich, dass KI ihr Potenzial nicht gleichmäßig entfaltet, sondern bestehende strukturelle Ungleichheiten eher verstärkt. Nach wie vor besteht die reale Gefahr, dass sich bestimmte Beschäftigtengruppen zunehmend vom technologischen Fortschritt abkoppeln, weil ihnen der Zugang zu KI-Nutzung, Weiterbildungsangeboten und betrieblicher Unterstützung fehlt. Daraus ergibt sich ein klarer Handlungsauftrag an Wirtschaft, Politik und Bildungseinrichtungen, um Teilhabechancen gezielt zu fördern und einer wachsenden sozialen Spaltung frühzeitig entgegenzuwirken." (Textauszug, IAB-Doku)

Abstract

"This report examines the potential for generative AI – tools that generate text, images, video or audio, such as ChatGPT, Copilot and Midjourney – to help SMEs address labour and skill needs. It presents evidence from a representative 2024 OECD survey of over 5 000 SMEs in Austria, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Korea and the United Kingdom, on how SMEs use generative AI, how its use may be helping to address labour and skill needs, and how SMEs are preparing employees to use generative AI. The survey shows that generative AI is in use in 31% of SMEs. SMEs report that generative AI improves performance, helps compensate for skill gaps and labour shortages, and increases the need for highly-skilled workers. SMEs have concerns about copyright, legal and regulatory issues, though negative attitudes towards generative AI are rare. The findings highlight the promise of generative AI but also the need for structured policy support to close digital and skills gaps between SMEs and larger firms and to ensure that any gains from generative AI are broadly shared across the economy and the workforce." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Zitatform

Leitner, Sebastian & Stella Sophie Zilian (2025): Digitalisation of jobs and gender-age segregation in digital tasks: Cross-country evidence based on ESJS2 data. (WIIW working paper 269), Wien, 37 S.

Abstract

"This paper addresses the disproportional effects of digitalisation across age by investigating (i) within-job age segregation in tasks by digital intensity; (ii) within-job age disparities in digital upskilling; (iii) age inequalities in wage returns to digital job tasks; and (iv) the role of gender in this age segregation and inequalities. The analysis is based on data of Cedefop's second wave of the European Skills and Jobs Survey (ESJS2), conducted in 2021. First results of the analysis show that even when controlling for occupation-industry job pairs apart from using other explanatory variables, age segregation and gender gaps are prevalent in the case of digital skill intensity of tasks performed in the jobs of employees, though not in the case of digital upskilling via training measures. Applying the same appropriate controls, we also find that higher within-job digital skill intensity is associated with higher hourly wages. Gender wage gaps are sizable across all skill intensity categories in addition to widening in older age groups." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Zitatform

Lewandowski, Piotr & Wojciech Szymczak (2025): Automation, Trade Unions and Atypical Employment. In: Industrial Relations, S. 1-19. DOI:10.1111/irel.70017

Abstract

"We study the effect of automation technologies—industrial robots, software and databases—on the incidence of involuntary atypical employment in 13 EU countries between 2006 and 2018. Robots do not affect the total employment rate but significantly increase the involuntary atypical employment share, mainly through fixed-term work. Software and databases increase total employment and are neutral for atypical employment. Higher trade union density mitigates the robots' impact on atypical employment, while employment protection legislation plays no role. Using historical decompositions, we attribute 1–2 percentage points of a 15% average atypical employment share in our sample to automation." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku, Published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons) ((en))