Italy's AI Conference Warns of Massive Job Risks and Calls for Strong Governance

A recent conference in Rome organized by Assidipost‑Federmanager highlighted the disruptive impact of artificial intelligence on employment and the need for robust governance. Speakers cited a study showing that roughly 425,000 jobs worldwide have been lost to AI since 2023, including 142,000 in Europe, and warned that one in four workers could face displacement as AI automates repetitive, digital tasks such as administrative support, customer care, banking and translation.

The event emphasized that while AI can create new professions, its rapid adoption also raises ethical, environmental and social challenges. Participants called for a European framework to ensure algorithmic transparency, protect digital sovereignty, and balance innovation with human‑centred values. Managers were urged to lead the integration of AI responsibly, and policymakers were reminded that data resources must be safeguarded to prevent external control.

Overall, the conference underscored the urgency for coordinated policy, corporate responsibility, and continuous worker training to mitigate AI‑related job losses while harnessing its economic potential in Italy and across the EU.