Salesforce co-founder and CEO Marc Benioff stressed the importance of responsible and equitable implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. Acknowledging the potential for both positive and negative impacts of generative AI, Benioff emphasized that AI should almost be considered a human right. The discussion at the WEF has centered on AI’s influence on job markets and the possibility of increased inequality.
According to a report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), approximately 40% of global employment is exposed to AI, with advanced economies having around 60% of jobs exposed due to the prevalence of cognitive task-oriented roles. The IMF study raises concerns that while emerging markets and developing economies may experience less immediate disruption from AI, they are also at risk of exacerbating the digital divide and cross-country income disparity. IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva highlighted the potential impact on older workers, suggesting the need for an enhanced social safety net. Cloudflare co-founder and CEO Matthew Prince acknowledged the transformative potential of AI but cautioned about the displacement of certain jobs, emphasizing the importance of managing such transitions.