Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the heart of the digital transformation and can significantly bolster the European economy. Automation of processes will reshape workplaces across industries, increasing efficiency and productivity and creating new opportunities for innovation and professional development. Conversely, these changes also raise legitimate concerns about potential job losses and the need to help upskill and reskill workers in the sectors which will face the most significant disruption.

The EU AI Act will set out the regulatory framework for the way AI will be used across all industries. The legislation, combined with investments into AI and skills through mechanisms such as the Digital Europe Programme and the Recovery and Resilience Facility, could prove to be a game-changer for Europe, helping it to amplify its ambitions and become a global leader in developing cutting-edge, trustworthy AI. The AI Act will need to balance considerations of the benefits of AI to European workers and the economy with concerns on the potential widening skills gap and social inequalities.

This second EURACTIV virtual conference of the 'Future of Work Lab debate series' will focus on the opportunities and risks posed by AI to the workforce and the development of standards for AI. Questions to be addressed include:

-How can AI be regulated to be true to the EU's core values?
-How can innovations in AI contribute to workforce development?
-How can policymakers ensure AI implementation in the workplace is ethical and fair?
-Is there scope for a digital social contract to ensure an inclusive future of work?