AI exposure impacts youth employment in France

A study by the Banque de France indicates that generative AI is already impacting the labor market, specifically affecting younger workers. Data analyzed between 2019 and 2026 shows that permanent contract (CDI) recruitment for individuals aged 21-29 has dropped significantly in professions with high AI exposure. In the most exposed quintile of jobs, recruitment for this age group fell approximately 28% compared to November 2022 levels, whereas less exposed sectors saw only an 8% decline.

In response to these technological shifts, the French Ministry of Labour has introduced the ‘Impulsion IA’ plan. This national initiative aims to allocate 80 million euros to train 30 million workers and support small and medium-sized enterprises (TPE-PME) through the transition. Experts suggest that successful adoption requires practical, job-specific training and a strategic approach to human capital to ensure AI acts as an assistant rather than a replacement for essential human expertise.