# AI and digital transformation in Europe

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ai-and-digital-transformation-in-europe
> Updated: 2026-09-28T16:19:33.000Z. Sources: 22. Developments: 4.

Artificial intelligence and digital transformation continue to drive structural changes across Central and Southeast Europe, impacting labor markets, industry operations, and professional skill requirements.

In Central Europe, the integration of AI is fundamentally reshaping labor markets. In Slovakia, research indicates that 78 percent of the population uses AI, with applications ranging from text editing to seeking emotional support. This has prompted initiatives like Slovak Telekom’s campaign to address the boundary between technological utility and human connection. A ‘new-collar’ class of workers is emerging, prioritizing AI proficiency and soft skills such as critical thinking over traditional degrees. In the Czech Republic, while mass layoffs have not occurred, companies are utilizing AI to boost productivity or reduce the need for new hires in roles previously held by humans.

Technological advancements are also challenging corporate hierarchies. Tools such as OpenExecutive are being introduced to simulate top management decision-making, suggesting potential future automation for executive roles. Consequently, job seekers in the region are showing increased flexibility, with over 73 percent willing to accept positions outside their original expertise.

In the Western Balkans, professional discussions emphasize the intersection of human creativity and AI. At the sixth Marketing&Business Meetup in Čapljina, participants explored how AI influences storytelling and brand messaging. In the telecommunications sector, industry leaders have noted that AI is transforming customer support, network management, cybersecurity, and data analysis. There remains a strong emphasis on achieving digital sovereignty for Bosnia and Herzegovina through the development of domestic infrastructure and professional capacities.

## Claims

- The emergence of a 'new-collar era' is occurring in the labor market. (single source)
- Approximately 1.3 million new AI-enabled jobs have appeared globally in the last two years. (single source)
- Mentions of artificial intelligence in Czech job advertisements increased by 355% between 2022 and 2024. (single source)
- More than half of Czech employees and self-employed individuals do not fear being replaced by AI. (single source)
- Approximately 90% of companies in the Czech Republic claim to use AI in some form. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-28: AI integration reshapes labor markets in Slovakia and Czech Republic

AI is transforming Central European labor markets, driving the rise of ‘new-collar’ workers and shifting how employees and managers approach productivity, skill sets, and professional roles.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/artificial-intelligence-reshapes-labor-market-and-job-roles

### 2026-09-21: AI and digital transformation drive discussions in marketing and telecommunications

Professionals discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on marketing and telecommunications, focusing on digital transformation, storytelling, and infrastructure development in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ai-and-digital-transformation-drive-discussions-in-marketing-and-telecommunications

### 2026-09-17: AI and digital shifts transform Western Balkans tech and finance sectors

AI and shifting market demands are transforming the financial and ICT sectors in the Western Balkans, moving focus from basic coding and payments toward business intelligence and AI-driven consumer experiences.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ai-and-digital-shifts-transform-western-balkans-tech-and-finance-sectors

### 2026-09-16: AI and digital transformation reshape Czech and Slovak industries

AI and digital transformation are driving major shifts in Czech and Slovak industries, impacting professional identities and automating tasks across administrative, creative, and industrial sectors.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/artificial-intelligence-transforms-labor-markets-in-central-europe

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Cite as: AI and digital transformation in Europe. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ai-and-digital-transformation-in-europe