New Technologies and Jobs in Europe

Summary We examine the link between labour market developments and new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and software in 16 European countries over the period 2011–9. Using data for occupations at the three-digit level, we find that on average employment shares have increased in occupations more exposed to AI. This is particularly the case for occupations with a relatively higher proportion of younger and skilled workers. While there exists heterogeneity across countries, only very few countries show a decline in employment shares of occupations more exposed to AI-enabled automation. Country heterogeneity for this result seems to be linked to the pace of technology diffusion and education, but also to the level of product market regulation (competition) and employment protection laws. In contrast to the findings for employment, we find little evidence for a relationship between relative wages across occupations and potential exposures to new technologies.