- Conference
- 2024 National Delegate Conference
- Date
- 12 February 2024
- Decision
- Carried
Conference, Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly developing technology that has the potential to transform and improve the quality and efficiency of delivery of processes and services in the public sector.
AI can also create new jobs and roles in all public sectors and can also enhance the skills and capabilities of existing workers, by providing them with new tools and insights to improve their practice.
Conference, it also has to be recognised that Artificial intelligence (AI) poses a number of threats to the UNISON members, where employers can look to use AI to replace workers rather than using AI to aid productivity.
Conference, one risk is Job Automation: AI technology has the potential to automate various tasks that are currently performed by humans. This could lead to significant job displacement, particularly in public services were there are routine tasks such as administration which are traditionally carried out by women. Workers in these roles may find their jobs eliminated or gradually reduced, affecting their income and job security.
Another risk is Skill Relevance: AI-powered automation often requires workers to possess new and more advanced skills to remain competitive in the job market. Individuals who lack these skills or are unable to adapt may find it challenging to secure employment or may face downward pressure on their wages and overall working conditions.
AI could exacerbate wage inequality. As automation takes over certain jobs, the demand for skilled workers in AI-related areas may increase, leading to higher wages for those with the necessary expertise. On the other hand, workers in jobs that are easily automated might experience a decline in job opportunities and stagnant wages.
The implementation of AI may widen the digital divide between workers who have access to technology and those who do not. Workers without access to digital tools or training may struggle to adapt to AI driven work environments, facing exclusion and potential job loss.
With the advent of AI, companies collect and process vast amounts of personal data to train and improve AI algorithms. This raises concerns about data privacy and security for unionised workers, as their personal information might be at risk of being mishandled or accessed without their consent.
AI driven technologies can affect traditional unionised work structures. Companies may employ non-unionised workers to leverage AI capabilities or bypass collective bargaining by relying on algorithms and automation. This erosion of union power could weaken worker protection and bargaining positions.
Conference to address these threats and protect UNISON members, it is important for UNISON negotiators, policymakers, and employers to collaborate on initiatives like reskilling and upskilling programs, negotiating protections for affected workers, ensuring data privacy regulations, and promoting AI ethics and responsible implementation.
Conference calls on the National Executive Council to:
1)To approach the government to campaign and work with them on a comprehensive and coordinated approach to prepare the workforce, industry and all organisations for the adoption and implementation of AI. This approach should involve education, training, regulation, governance, and evaluation;
2)Involve and engage all stakeholders, including affiliated trade unions, policymakers, and researchers, in the development of a policy for use and deployment of AI. This should ensure that AI is aligned with the values, needs, and preferences of the workforce and users;
3)Prepare UNISON briefings on the effects of AI for the workforce and a guide on negotiation with employers on this issue.