Pew Research Center Survey Reveals Global Concerns Over AI Job Losses

The widespread expectation of job reductions due to AI signals a potential shift in labor markets, influencing economic stability and workforce planning.

• Pew Research Center released a global survey on September 17, 2026, indicating that 46% of respondents expect AI to reduce job opportunities over the next two decades.
• High-income countries show heightened pessimism, with 76% of Australians and South Koreans, and 71% of Americans anticipating job losses.
• Younger adults (ages 18-34) express increased concern about AI's impact on white-collar jobs compared to previous surveys.

• Prior surveys indicated growing fears about AI's role in job displacement, with 64% of U.S. respondents expecting job losses in 2024.
• Corporate layoffs linked to automation and executive warnings about AI's potential to displace workers have heightened public scrutiny.
• Wealthy nations exhibit a median of 55% expecting job losses, contrasting with a median of 36% in middle-income countries.

The recent Pew Research Center survey reveals a significant shift in public sentiment regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on job markets. Conducted between February and May 2026, the survey gathered insights from 42,151 adults across 37 countries, highlighting a growing consensus that AI will lead to job reductions rather than expansions. This sentiment is particularly pronounced in high-income nations, where economic stability and job security are paramount concerns.

The survey's findings indicate that 46% of respondents globally expect fewer jobs due to AI advancements, with the figure rising to 71% in the United States. This marks a notable increase from previous years, reflecting a broader awareness of AI's potential to disrupt traditional employment structures. The heightened concern among younger adults, especially those aged 18-34, suggests a generational shift in attitudes toward technology and its implications for the workforce.

The context of these findings is critical. Rapid advancements in AI technology, coupled with corporate layoffs attributed to automation, have created an environment of uncertainty. Executives, such as Dario Amodei from Anthropic, have warned about the potential for AI to displace white-collar jobs, further fueling public anxiety. As companies increasingly adopt AI solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the fear of job loss becomes more tangible for workers across various sectors.

Moreover, the disparity in expectations between high-income and middle-income countries underscores the varying levels of economic resilience and adaptability. While wealthier nations grapple with the implications of AI on established job markets, middle-income countries exhibit a more tempered outlook, with a median of 36% anticipating job losses. This difference may stem from varying degrees of technological integration and economic diversification.

As the conversation around AI and employment continues to evolve, the implications for workforce planning and policy development become increasingly critical. Organizations and governments must address these concerns proactively, fostering a dialogue about the future of work in an AI-driven landscape. This includes investing in reskilling initiatives, promoting adaptability, and ensuring that workers are equipped to thrive in a changing job market.

• Young professionals in tech and white-collar sectors, facing potential job displacement.
• Corporate employees in industries heavily reliant on automation, such as finance and customer service.
• Policy makers in high-income countries, needing to address public concerns and labor market shifts.

• Government responses: Monitor for potential policy announcements aimed at mitigating job loss fears and supporting workforce transitions.
• Corporate strategies: Watch how companies adapt their workforce planning in response to public sentiment and AI integration.
• Public sentiment shifts: Keep an eye on future surveys to gauge changes in attitudes toward AI and job security.