The United Nations World Day of Social Justice , observed each 20 February, draws attention to the importance of a fair labour market to improve lives and create a more sustainable future for all. Central to this is inclusive and effective governance of work, ensuring employment opportunities and continued professional development and extending social protections across peoples' lifetimes.
To mark this year's UN World Day of Social Justice, the International Bar Association (IBA) has spotlighted the work of its Global Employment Institute (GEI), in particular the report Digitalisation (Artificial Intelligence and Robotics) and its Impact on the World of Work - Part II , which reveals significant shifts are expected in office work, customer service and production, while sectors such as information technology, healthcare and engineering may experience job growth driven by new technological demands.
With generative artificial intelligence (AI) recognised as a tool that has the potential to transform various industries, social justice is under the spotlight as economic inequalities are likely to be exacerbated by AI adoption, with advanced economies benefitting more due to substantial investments in the technology. The report identifies the need for adaptive, international legal frameworks to address this, as well as for prioritising digital literacy and lifelong learning opportunities.
The impact of automation across sectors shows that routine tasks and roles are the most vulnerable, which could have a significant impact on the lives of people who make up the global labour market as well as their families.
To safeguard against inequality, the report includes key policy recommendations such as the development of fair monitoring practices and the modernisation of social security systems to accommodate workers in non-traditional roles, such as gig and platform workers.
