Spain pushes for AI regulation to protect workers

Spain has called for stronger regulation of AI and algorithmic management in the workplace, arguing that digital technologies should strengthen workers’ rights rather than undermine them.

Speaking at the VI Ibero-American Ministerial Conference on Labour in Avilés, Spain’s Second Vice President and Minister of Labour, Yolanda Díaz, urged governments across the region to establish governance frameworks that ensure transparency, human oversight and the ethical use of AI in employment.

The conference focused on two priorities shaping the future of work. Ministers agreed on the need to professionalise, formalise and improve working conditions in the care sector, recognising its economic and social importance while addressing the precarious conditions faced by many workers, particularly women.

Delegations also examined the growing use of algorithmic management, stressing that governments should actively regulate AI to protect labour rights.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Avilés Ministerial Declaration and the Ibero-American Commitment on the Social and Solidarity Economy 2026–2030. Together, the documents establish shared principles on care work, algorithmic governance and labour rights while strengthening regional cooperation to promote inclusive economic development, quality employment and more resilient labour markets ahead of the XXX Ibero-American Summit in Madrid later this year.

At the same time, the commitment strengthens regional cooperation to promote inclusive economic development, quality employment and more resilient labour markets ahead of the XXX Ibero-American Summit scheduled to take place in Madrid later this year.

Why does it matter?

The conference reflects growing international concern that AI is reshaping the workplace faster than labour regulations are evolving. By calling for greater transparency, human oversight and accountability in algorithmic management, Spain is arguing that AI should improve working conditions without weakening workers’ rights or limiting human decision-making.

The adoption of shared regional principles also highlights how labour policy is becoming an increasingly important part of AI governance. As algorithmic systems play a larger role in hiring, scheduling, performance management and other employment decisions, governments are placing greater emphasis on ensuring that technological innovation remains aligned with fairness, inclusion and decent work.

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