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Unite warns of AI risk, calls for worker protections

Unite has warned that AI systems are leading to increased surveillance and creating significant risks for workers.
1 min read

Unite has warned about the growing risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in workplaces, stating that AI systems, often designed with one-size-fits-all approaches, are leading to increased surveillance and creating significant risks for workers.

Unite expressed concern about the potential for AI to entrench discrimination against women, black and Asian ethnic minorities, disabled and LGBTQ+ workers, especially in critical areas such as recruitment, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions.

Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said that while embracing new technologies was vital, protections must be put in place to shield workers.

Graham said: “The introduction of AI in the workplace must be something that happens with workers and not to workers.

“Government, employers, and unions all need to be working together to avoid the potential dangers of workplace AI.”

According to Unite, members have already reported significant changes to their working conditions due to AI, with many feeling alienated and demotivated.

AI-powered tools are being used for monitoring employees, often failing to account for the nuances of how tasks are performed.

Unite stressed that these systems are not only impersonal but can also undermine trust and morale in workplaces.

The union raised the issue of algorithmic discrimination, where AI systems trained on biased data are more likely to replicate and perpetuate societal inequalities.

Graham warned: “After years of fighting against discrimination, there is now the genuine threat of it being further embedded through AI, against women, Black and Asian ethnic minority, disabled, and LGBTQ+ workers.”

Unite called on the Government and employers to work collaboratively with unions to ensure AI is implemented ethically and responsibly.

This means creating systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure transparency in decision-making processes, and prevent AI from becoming a tool for unchecked surveillance or discrimination.

As AI continues to reshape workplaces, Unite emphasised on the importance of giving workers a voice in how these technologies are introduced and utilised, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of fairness and dignity in the workplace.

Zarah Choudhary

Zarah Choudhary is a Reporter for Workplace Journal and The Intermediary

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