Introduction
The World Bank has released a report examining the influence of generative AI on employment in Latin America and the Caribbean. This study focuses on how the digital divide can either act as a buffer or become a bottleneck for workers in these regions. As generative AI continues to evolve, its implications for the labor market are profound, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
The Digital Divide: Buffer or Bottleneck?
The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have easy access to digital technology and those who do not. In the context of Latin America and the Caribbean, this divide can play a dual role:
- Buffer: For some, limited access to technology might temporarily shield jobs from automation.
- Bottleneck: Conversely, it can hinder the ability of workers to adapt to new technologies, thereby limiting job opportunities.
Key Dimensions
Opportunities
- Adaptation of Skills: The report highlights the necessity of adapting skills and training to "prepare the future" of careers. This adaptation is crucial for leveraging the benefits of generative AI.
Threats
- Digital Divide: The rapid advancement of AI technology risks leaving "half the world" behind, exacerbating inequalities in access and opportunity.