
By Juliet Umeh
Artificial Intelligence, AI is transforming job markets worldwide, but its impact is far from uniform. While the United States and Singapore are reaping the benefits of AI-driven economies, many other nations struggle to keep pace, exposing deep inequalities in workforce resilience.
The latest Global Labour Resilience Index, GLRI, released at the World Economic Forum in Davos, underscores this growing divide. Produced by global public policy firm Whiteshield in collaboration with Google Cloud, the report ranks 118 countries based on their ability to withstand AI-induced disruptions, using over 70 indicators to assess labour market resilience.
Winners and losers in the AI race
The report reveals a stark contrast in AI adoption and workforce preparedness. The United States dominates AI investment and innovation, capturing 60% of global AI funding and hosting a quarter of the world’s AI startups. Singapore, ranked second globally, stands out for its robust digital policies, business-friendly environment, and high digital literacy. Europe also performs strongly, with six of the 10 most resilient economies, including Sweden, which excels in education and R&D investments.
Conversely, Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East & North Africa, MENA, lag significantly. Twelve of the 20 lowest-ranked countries are in Sub-Saharan Africa, where inadequate digital infrastructure and skill gaps threaten economic stability. However, the region’s youthful population presents an opportunity for AI-driven transformation if supported by strategic investments. Meanwhile, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are making notable progress, leveraging targeted AI policies to boost their digital economies.
The policy imperative
Experts emphasize the need for proactive policies to bridge this AI gap. Google’s Global Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy, Karan Bhatia, stated: “The GLRI provides a roadmap for harnessing AI’s potential while addressing automation and inequality challenges.” Nobel laureate Sir Christopher Pissarides echoed this sentiment, stressing the urgency of inclusive and sustainable policies to prevent economic stagnation.
The report calls on governments to prioritize AI literacy, invest in digital infrastructure, and implement citizen-focused strategies. Without these measures, the AI revolution risks deepening global economic disparities, leaving many nations behind in the race for the future of work.