ILO report warns of rising workplace risks amid digital transformation
Workplace-related stress factors contribute to major health conditions and result in significant economic losses, accounting for an estimated 1.37% of global GDP.
More than 840,000 deaths each year are linked to psychosocial risks at work, according to a new report by the International Labour Organization. Factors such as long working hours, job insecurity, and workplace harassment are identified as key contributors to serious health conditions.
These risks are linked to cardiovascular and mental health disorders, causing around 45 million lost years of healthy life each year. Economic impacts are significant, with losses estimated at 1.37% of global GDP due to reduced productivity and health-related costs.
The report highlights that risks stem from how work is designed, organised, and managed. High demands, low control, unclear roles, and poor workplace policies can create harmful environments if not addressed through structured safety and health systems.
Ongoing shifts in the labour market, including digitalisation, AI, and remote work, are reshaping these risks. While such changes may increase pressure on workers, they also present opportunities to improve working conditions if managed with clear policies and preventive measures.
The findings reinforce that workplace design is a major public health and economic issue, not just an organisational concern. Without proactive management, psychosocial risks may grow with digital transformation, affecting productivity, labour stability, and economic resilience.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech, and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!