The celebration of Labor Day on May 1st dates back to 1886, with the historical demands of the movement championed by unions remaining relatively unchanged over time. However, a significant shift in labor relations has occurred between May 1, 2023, and today, originating in Hollywood, California. Last year, a writers’ strike in Hollywood led to a larger movement against the influence of generative Artificial Intelligence in the workplace, causing unprecedented protests and strikes in the entertainment industry.
The protests highlighted the fear of technological innovation replacing jobs and the workers’ struggle against an uncertain future. Although the strike was resolved with an agreement with production companies, the implications of AI on the workforce remain a significant concern. This event foreshadows the future of collective bargaining and union struggles at a global level.
In Spain, the class unions UGT and CCOO do not currently prioritize the challenge of digitalization in their labor movements. Their focus remains on traditional demands such as salary improvements and reduced working hours. However, the decline in union membership, especially in low-skilled jobs, poses a threat as AI technology advances.
Unions in Spain are starting to acknowledge the transformations ahead and are adapting their strategies to meet the changing demands of the digital economy. The International Workers Organization warns of the challenges posed by digitalization, emphasizing the importance of modernizing regulatory frameworks and enhancing worker representation in the face of technological disruption.
Overall, the rise of AI technology in