Pew Study Finds Global Pessimism Over AI Job Loss

A global study by the Pew Research Center involving over 50,000 people across 37 middle- and high-income countries reveals widespread pessimism regarding artificial intelligence. In 34 of the 37 surveyed nations, respondents are more likely to predict that AI will lead to fewer jobs than more jobs over the next two decades. A global average of 46% expect job losses, while only 9% anticipate job growth. Nigeria was the only country where expectations for job creation outweighed those for loss.

Concerns are most acute in wealthier nations, where the median job-loss expectation is 55%, compared to 36% in middle-income countries. In the United States, 71% of respondents predict fewer jobs, an increase from 64% two years ago. Similarly, 76% of respondents in Australia and South Korea foresee net job losses. Young adults aged 18 to 34 are the most concerned demographic, particularly in the U.S.

Economic data suggests these fears may be manifesting as reduced entry-level hiring. The Stanford Digital Economy Lab found that employment for workers aged 22 to 25 in AI-exposed roles is 19% below expected levels. However, the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research noted in July 2026 that AI's overall consequences for the U.S. labor market have remained marginal. Beyond employment, the survey indicates a global consensus that AI is unlikely to decrease the gap between the rich and the poor, with a majority in the U.S., Australia, and South Korea believing it will increase economic inequality.