AI sparks worry over job loss and skill decline

Many employees worry that AI could replace parts of their jobs, reduce skills, and make work less engaging, while some see potential productivity gains.

A survey finds 41% of employees think AI could perform part of their work, with almost half expressing concern about job impacts.

A 2025 survey by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) shows that 41% of employees think AI could perform part of their job, while 4% fear full replacement. Higher-educated workers and young adults are most likely to believe their tasks could be automated.

Among those using AI at work, 56% expect it could partly or fully do their jobs, compared with 37% of non-users. Almost half of the workers who see AI as a potential replacement expressed concern, with women slightly more worried than men.

Most adults anticipate that AI will lead to job losses (75%), a decline in workforce skills (64%), and less interesting work (48%). Despite these concerns, 57% believe AI could boost productivity by speeding up tasks.

Fewer respondents think AI will solve labour shortages (46%) or replace unsafe jobs (41%). The findings highlight both the opportunities and anxieties surrounding AI adoption in the workplace.

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