Throughout history, technological advancements have consistently brought revolutionary changes. However, the transformation we are witnessing today, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), appears to surpass all past revolutions, offering new horizons of possibilities. AI is not merely a technological advancement; it is a force reshaping economies, societies, and labor markets across the globe. While AI simplifies our lives through innovations like automated factories, smart banking, and doctor-free disease diagnosis, it is also displacing jobs and reducing employment opportunities in various sectors. For developing nations like Bangladesh, AI presents both challenges and opportunities.
The rise of AI is profoundly transforming global employment trends. Research predicts that by 2030, nearly 800 million jobs may be lost due to automation replacing human labor. The most significant impact will be felt in low- and mid-skilled jobs, with professions in manufacturing, customer service, marketing, journalism, law, and even healthcare already experiencing early effects. This trend is expected to grow in the future.
In Bangladesh, this shift is becoming increasingly evident. The garment industry, which has long relied on human labor, saw a 12% reduction in jobs in 2022-2023 due to the implementation of CAD/CAM software and automation. According to research from the World Bank, Oxford Economics, and the McKinsey Global Institute, Asian labor markets, including Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, and Indonesia, are particularly vulnerable to AI-driven automation. Countries like Bangladesh, which have traditionally relied on cheap labor, now face significant challenges as automation disrupts the employment structures that have supported their economies.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) reports that nearly 83 million jobs may be lost globally in the next five years, though 69 million new jobs will be created. This indicates that while new skills will be in demand, many traditional jobs will disappear. In Bangladesh, the labor market is heavily dependent on the garment, agriculture, construction, and service sectors. The garment industry alone employs nearly 4 million people, with 80% of these workers being women. As automation and modern production technologies become more widespread, many of these workers may lose their jobs. A study by PwC predicts that in the next two decades, 20-30% of jobs in Bangladesh could be at risk due to AI and automation. Sectors such as garments, call centers, data entry, banking, accounting, and customer service are increasingly replacing human labor with software and robots.
Despite these challenges, the economic benefits of AI cannot be overlooked. In 2023, AI-driven advancements contributed to a 1.3% increase in global GDP, and this figure is projected to reach an annual $4.4 trillion by 2030. AI-powered diagnostic tools have already reduced waste in Bangladesh's hospitals by 40%, and AI is revolutionizing agriculture. The "AI Farmer" app, for example, has helped over 200,000 farmers increase their crop yields by 30%.
However, these benefits come with a growing threat of unemployment. According to the World Bank, 67% of Bangladesh's workforce is unprepared for AI-integrated jobs. Despite the expansion of digitalization in Bangladesh, there is a severe shortage of skilled professionals. Universities still focus largely on traditional curricula, with insufficient emphasis on machine learning, data science, robotics, and AI. Although skill development programs have been initiated at both government and private levels, they are insufficient to meet the growing demand for technology-focused expertise.
The informal economy, which employs 85% of Bangladesh's workforce, is particularly vulnerable. If automation spreads too rapidly, it could lead to a social crisis. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to reform the education system to align with the changing job market. Universities must prioritize AI, robotics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity as key areas for skill development. Additionally, governments and private organizations must launch extensive training programs to help workers adapt to new technologies. Special initiatives, such as AI-driven solar grid management training for women, should be expanded. Technical training institutes should be established in collaboration with industrial sectors, and special policy support should encourage tech-driven startups and entrepreneurs. Increased investment in the technology sector is also needed to foster innovation and create opportunities for local innovators.
Moreover, policy reforms are crucial. Strict measures must be implemented to prevent the misuse of AI and ensure that its benefits are distributed fairly. Worker protection, ethical AI practices, and social security must be prioritized. Bangladesh needs a comprehensive AI and automation policy that balances technological advancement with human employment. Before automation is widely implemented, worker rehabilitation policies must be introduced, and basic income or employment benefits programs should be expanded. Additionally, regulations to protect data privacy and prevent algorithmic bias are essential.
Rather than viewing AI as a threat, we must recognize it as a tool for human development. AI is not a replacement for human labor; it is a reality that will shape the future of civilization. The challenge for Bangladesh is to integrate technological advancements with social security. By focusing on education, policy reform, and innovation, AI can become a driving force for economic growth, rather than a source of unemployment.
If Bangladesh acts quickly to invest in skill development and implement effective policies, the AI revolution could be a boon for the nation. However, if the country falls behind, the next decade could see massive job losses that could destabilize the economy. Now is the time to prepare and equip ourselves with the necessary skills. There is no alternative to preparation if we want AI to be a blessing for our future.
The writer is a student, Department of Economics, Eden Mohila College
