Survey: AI integration won't lead to massive layoffs in Czechia

A new study by the Czech branch of the human resources management company Randstad reveals that incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into Czech business operations will not lead to extensive job reductions. The report indicates that more than a third of Czech businesses already use AI, and an additional 30 percent intend to implement it soon.

Of the companies surveyed, 90 percent believe that AI will replace certain jobs while simultaneously creating new ones, resulting in no noteworthy difference in staff numbers. Only 8 percent of respondents anticipate “significant layoffs” due to implementation. Randstad points out that the introduction of AI primarily trims administrative and production staff.

“Artificial intelligence is becoming an essential component of the business environment. Companies that have already adopted or plan to adopt AI recognize its immense potential. Currently, the most significant advantage of it lies in streamlining work processes, facilitating quicker data processing and analysis, more accurate forecasts, and improved labor productivity," says CEO of Randstad Czech Republic Martin Jánský.

The survey also highlights several challenges to the widespread adoption of AI. These include employee skepticism regarding the benefits of AI and a scarcity of qualified personnel capable of working properly with the technology. 

A survey conducted earlier this year by Charles University and Ipsos showed that six out of 10 Czechs would endorse a six-month pause in the development of generative AI software, including models like ChatGPT.

The survey focused mainly on artificial intelligence in the media. Approximately 40 percent of the Czech population indicated that they interact with AI on a daily basis, with individuals most frequently recognizing AI in products related to human health, such as fitness trackers, and during online shopping.

Jánský emphasizes the importance of providing training and retraining opportunities to address this issue, which, if left unaddressed, could become a significant problem – not only in terms of competitiveness but also due to potential security risks.

During its presidency of the Council of the EU, Czechia helped create the EU’s first piece of legislation that would broadly regulate the use of AI in companies and prevent its misuse.