Artificial intelligence challenges existing social contracts

The rise of artificial intelligence is challenging the traditional social contract that underpins developed economies. Historically, this contract has relied on the premise that employment serves as the primary source of family income, funds social protection, and enables economic mobility, while the state provides education, health, and social security.

A 2024 IMF study indicates that approximately 60% of jobs in advanced economies are exposed to artificial intelligence. While this exposure does not necessarily mean job destruction, the technology may complement human labor in some sectors while replacing tasks, reducing hiring, or suppressing wages in others. Unlike previous waves of automation, this shift affects intellectual and highly skilled professions, potentially risking the stability of the relationship between citizens and state institutions.