AI and work in Cyprus. Unions warn, employers focus on training

AI is changing jobs in Cyprus, and trade unions are warning of job losses and a more challenging start for graduates. Employer representatives, however, point to training to help employees use the technology and adapt to new responsibilities.

In statements published on November 1st by the Cyprus Mail, the interviewees emphasized that there is currently no evidence of mass layoffs on the island due to AI. The vulnerability of a profession to AI doesn't mean that the entire position will be eliminated. The primary change may be the scope of tasks performed.

AI and work in Cyprus: a more difficult start for graduates?

One of the concerns of union members is the limited opportunities to gain initial experience. Christos Tombazos, deputy secretary general of the PEO union, points to the threat to young people starting their careers, including in the legal profession.

Simpler support tasks allow graduates to learn documents, procedures, and how to conduct business. If AI systems take over, companies will need to find other ways to prepare new employees for independent work.

The problem, then, isn't just about the number of positions. It's also about how to acquire the skills needed for advancement when part of the current learning path is automated.

Employers point to education

The Secretary General of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KEVE), Philokypros Rousounides, emphasizes the importance of preparing both those already employed and those entering the job market. Appropriate education will help them use AI to perform their duties more efficiently.

The head of the SEK union, Andreas Matsas, points out the risks to services, including accounting and law firms. He advocates maintaining human control over decisions made using technology.

Training and employee protection therefore appear in the same discussion. Unions and business representatives differ in their assessment of the risks, but they point to the need to prepare people for change.

Office work is particularly susceptible to change

The International Monetary Fund's analysis of Cyprus points to the risk of job substitution in professions related to business and administration, information technology and office work.

It's important to distinguish between two situations. In the first, AI complements human skills: it helps analyze information or prepare materials, and the employee evaluates the results. In the second, it takes over tasks in a way that can reduce the need for human labor.

The mere possibility of using AI doesn't determine which scenario will occur. What matters is the company's organization, scope of responsibilities, and how the tools are implemented.

European research cools down simple predictions

A study published on October 15 by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre, JRC, also points to the significant impact of AI on highly skilled office work.

The authors emphasize, however, that a profession's adaptability to technology does not equate to replacing employees. The crucial factors are the importance of independent judgment, responsibility, and interpersonal contact.

According to the study, current employment and job vacancy data do not show clear signs of AI disrupting the labor market. Researchers point to the need for more thorough monitoring of changes.

This is a description of the available evidence, not a guarantee that no jobs will disappear. The impact of technology may vary across professions and businesses.

Training is also needed for those already employed

The JRC highlights a gap in educational provision. AI-related education is focused on master's degrees, while short, flexible training courses for those already in the workforce remain underdeveloped.

For Poles working in Cyprus, this raises important questions about access to learning throughout their careers. Preparing for change isn't limited to learning a single program. Skills in performance evaluation, problem-solving, and collaborating with others are also essential.

A practical step could be to discuss with your employer which tasks will change, what training will be available, and who is responsible for reviewing AI's results. This is an editorial tip: it allows you to translate the general discussion about technology into the specific conditions of performing your duties.