Hyderabad: Trade union representatives from BRICS member countries have called for a balanced approach to artificial intelligence (AI), stressing that emerging technologies should be used to enhance workers’ productivity and quality of life rather than become a reason for job displacement.
The appeal was made during discussions at the three-day BRICS Trade Union Forum in Hyderabad, where labour leaders highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among governments, employers and workers to address challenges arising from rapid technological transformation, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
Delegates emphasised that AI-driven changes in workplaces must be accompanied by policies that protect employment opportunities, improve skills and ensure workers are prepared for the future economy.
AI Should Empower Workers, Not Replace Them
Indonesian trade union representative Ditha Juliet said the impact of technology on employment was among the major issues being discussed at the forum. She noted that AI has the potential to create significant improvements in workplaces if implemented with a worker-focused approach.
According to Juliet, technological advancement should be viewed as a means to support employees, increase efficiency and create better working environments rather than as a mechanism for reducing jobs.
She underlined the role of trade unions in helping workers understand technological changes and preparing them for new opportunities emerging from digital transformation. She added that transparent communication between companies, governments and employees would be essential to ensure that AI adoption does not create uncertainty among workers.
Juliet also stressed that social dialogue would play a critical role as industries across the world increasingly integrate automation and artificial intelligence into their operations.
BRICS Workers Seek Better Wages and Improved Conditions
Brazilian labour representative Carlos Miller from the CTB Trade Union said the forum provided an important platform for unions to present workers’ expectations before BRICS governments.
Miller said labour organisations wanted BRICS cooperation to translate into tangible benefits for ordinary workers, including improved salaries, safer workplaces and stronger labour rights.
He argued that economic partnerships among BRICS nations should not focus only on trade and investment but should also consider the welfare of workers who contribute to economic growth.
Highlighting the importance of a fairer global system, Miller called for greater attention to workers’ concerns while framing international economic policies. He said labour communities should remain central to discussions on development and global cooperation.
Geopolitical Conflicts Raise Concerns Over Worker Safety
During the forum, concerns were also raised over the impact of geopolitical tensions on workers, particularly those engaged in maritime industries.
Miller referred to instability around West Asia and the Strait of Hormuz, expressing concern about the safety of thousands of seafarers affected by disruptions in the region.
He urged governments to address not only economic consequences such as rising energy costs but also the security and welfare of workers operating in vulnerable areas.
The representative highlighted that many Indian seafarers were among those affected, making worker protection an important issue requiring international cooperation.
Fuel Price Risks and Economic Impact Discussed
Telangana Minister Vivek Venkatswamy said developments around the Strait of Hormuz could create challenges for India’s economy, particularly through possible increases in fuel prices.
He explained that higher energy costs could have a wider impact by increasing transportation expenses and pushing up prices of essential goods.
The minister stressed the importance of reducing dependence on excessive fuel consumption and adopting sustainable practices. He pointed to steps taken by the Telangana government, including reducing the use of escort vehicles, as part of efforts to conserve resources.
Venkatswamy said governments must prepare long-term strategies to manage economic pressures arising from global disruptions.
Social Dialogue Key to Managing Future Workplace Changes
The BRICS Trade Union Forum highlighted that technological progress, including AI adoption, must be accompanied by inclusive labour policies and meaningful discussions among all stakeholders.
Trade union leaders said cooperation between governments, employers and workers would be essential to ensuring that digital transformation benefits society as a whole.
As BRICS nations continue expanding economic collaboration, labour representatives stressed that the success of future growth models would depend on protecting employment, strengthening skills and ensuring that workers remain at the centre of development strategies.