China's AI employment measures

China has introduced 18 measures to address potential job losses caused by artificial intelligence and to support affected workers. These measures cover six areas, including creating new jobs, improving social protection, providing training, and preventing unemployment. The initiative emphasizes evaluating risks to employment, particularly in sectors where AI projects might lead to significant job reductions.

China's focus on risk evaluation and transition

The Chinese government encourages companies to use automation in roles with personnel shortages or high safety risks. Employers are also invited to consider transition periods before job losses, offering prior information to employees and retraining opportunities. The guidelines also include monitoring unemployment risks and addressing the misuse of algorithms in human resources, especially when they lead to discrimination or privacy violations.

France's AI workplace plan

France has introduced its own plan, called Impulsion IA 2027, which includes 12 measures and over 80 million euros in funding for the coming year. The plan prioritizes training employees and job seekers, supporting companies, and preparing for changes in job roles. It features a free public platform called Explore IA, a national certification system, and an observatory to study AI's impact on employment and working conditions.

French legal framework for AI-related layoffs

In France, the judiciary can intervene if AI-related job cuts are deemed inappropriate. French law requires companies with at least 50 employees to consult the social and economic committee (CSE) when introducing new technologies that affect working conditions. Recently, a court in Créteil halted a reorganization plan that would have cut eight jobs at GISI, a media company, due to insufficient verification of AI's capabilities in real conditions.

European AI Act and real-world testing

The European AI Act, which will take effect on December 2, 2027, classifies AI systems used in human resources as high risk. The GISI case highlights the need for companies to demonstrate AI's capabilities in real-world conditions before eliminating positions. While AI promises productivity gains, these are often estimates, and job losses are not hypothetical, underscoring the importance of thorough testing and validation.