Automation and mechanisation will continue to result in significant structural changes to the nature of work as an increasing number of jobs are performed by computers and robots. Research by the McKinsey Global Institute estimates that while automation could raise productivity growth globally by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually, half of the activities people are currently paid to do could potentially be automated, amounting to nearly $15 trillion in wages. Their research finds that these activities are primarily physical activities in highly structured and predictable environments, as well as the collection and processing of data.

The long-term impacts of growth in automation remain to be seen and there is a real risk that lower-skilled workers who are already vulnerable due to low pay, precarious work conditions, or job insecurity may be most affected. It is critical that workers and labour unions be at the centre of discussions and decision-making about how automation can be utilised for everyone's benefit. Under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, companies have the responsibility to avoid causing or contributing to adverse human rights impacts, such as violations of the risk to decent work, through their own activities and to address such impacts when they occur. Companies increasing their use of automation can help mitigate negative impacts on workers by investing in opportunities for developing new skills.