ILO chief flags AI’s gender threat

"If we are not careful, AI will increase the divide between men and women," ILO chief warns.

Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), raised this alarm during his three-day visit to India, where he praised the country's progress in advancing social protection, responsible business practices and workers' rights.

Speaking to UN News, the ILO chief warned that automation disproportionately threatens female-dominated jobs. “Many clerical activities in jobs are more dominated by females. These activities are more subject to automation. If we are not careful, AI will increase the divide between men and women. We have to make sure that AI does not create new or worsen the digital divide,” he said.

During his visit, Mr. Houngbo met India’s Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and held discussions with worker and employer groups. Speaking at the Regional Dialogue on Social Justice, held in New Delhi, he outlined the importance of social dialogue and consultations between Government, employers, and workers’ organizations, noting such engagement is essential in shaping policies that promote economic and social sustainability.

Mr. Houngbo noted India’s rise in social protection coverage, with nearly half of the country’s population—48.8%—now benefiting from at least one form of it, up from 24.4%, as per ILO’s latest World Social Protection Report 2024-26. 

He also commended India's push for stronger environmental and social guidelines for businesses, calling it a significant step toward ethical and sustainable growth.

The ILO chief also highlighted its Living Wage Initiative, pointing out that millions of wage earners worldwide still live in poverty due to inadequate wages. He encouraged India to join the initiative, citing its potential to benefit millions of low-wage workers and strengthen economic resilience.

While visiting a Global Capability Centre in Gurugram, Mr. Houngbo noted that emerging technology and digital trends are shaping the job market and how India’s young working population can stand to benefit from it.

He also met the UN Country Team in India to discuss ways to strengthen labour market policies, expand social protection, and promote responsible business practices through global cooperation.