Speaking at the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, UNI Global Union General Secretary Christy Hoffman addressed a crucial decision for societies: either allow AI to increase inequality or involve workers in shaping its future.
Representing over 20 million workers from 150 countries, Hoffman participated in a panel on “Harnessing AI for the Future of Work.” She urged governments, employers, and tech companies to prioritize people in AI developments.
Discussing AI’s economic impact, she stated: “Workers everywhere have fear about their futures, and for good reason. Our societies are not ready for an AI transformation.”
She continued: “Workers don’t have confidence that employers will include them in decisions about how and where AI will be used, that their jobs are safe or that they will have a chance to learn the skills that will be required to move forward.”
Hoffman emphasized the importance of social dialogue: “We know from history that an inclusive AI transition is possible but far from guaranteed. According to even modest projections, many millions are likely to be displaced by AI over the next five years.”
Joining Hoffman were Guillaume Faury of Airbus, Gilbert F. Houngbo of the ILO, Denis Machuel of Adecco Group, and moderator Sana de Courcelles.
African Tech Workers Rising also featured at the summit with Sonia Kgomo representing data supply chain workers seeking better conditions and accountability from Big Tech.
Hoffman’s participation highlighted the urgent need for collective bargaining and transparency regarding workplace technology use, especially concerning AI. She remains a prominent advocate for fair work practices in the digital era.
