Global Pew Survey: Most Expect AI to Destroy Jobs, Anxiety Highest in Australia and South Korea

A global survey by the Pew Research Center, published on September 17, 2026, indicates that people in 34 of 37 countries expect artificial intelligence to destroy more jobs than it creates over the next two decades, with significant anxiety reported in Australia, South Korea, and the US. For broader context, explore our AI News.

Widespread Job Displacement Concerns

The survey's findings indicate that in 34 of the 37 countries polled, a majority of respondents anticipate AI technology will result in job destruction rather than generating new employment opportunities. This sentiment underscores a significant global anxiety about the future of work in an increasingly automated world. The data provides a comprehensive view of public sentiment towards AI, moving beyond anecdotal evidence to present a broad international perspective. For broader context, explore our Top 100 AI Tools.

Nations with Highest Job-Loss Anxiety

Specific countries exhibited particularly high levels of concern regarding AI-driven job losses. Australia and South Korea both registered 76 percent of respondents expecting job destruction, marking them among the most anxious nations. The United States also showed significant apprehension, with 71 percent of its population sharing similar concerns. These figures suggest that even in economically advanced regions, the perceived threat of AI to traditional employment structures is substantial.

Mixed Emotions and Economic Inequality

Beyond job market fears, the Pew Research Center's survey also explored broader emotional responses to AI. A global median of 41% of individuals reported feeling an equal mix of concern and excitement about AI's advancements. However, a larger segment, 37%, expressed primary concern, while only 13% were predominantly excited. This emotional landscape suggests a cautious optimism at best, with a notable lean towards apprehension.

Expectations of Widening Wealth Gap

A significant finding from the survey is the widespread expectation that AI will exacerbate economic disparities. Most respondents believe that the integration of AI will widen the gap between the rich and the poor. This concern points to a deeper societal worry about how the benefits and disruptions of AI will be distributed across different socioeconomic strata.

Rising Concern Among Younger Generations

The survey also identified a notable increase in concern among younger adults, specifically those aged 18-34, over the past year. This rise in apprehension was particularly sharp in several countries, including Sweden, Poland, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and the US. This trend suggests that younger generations, who are often at the forefront of technological adoption, are also becoming increasingly aware of and worried about the potential negative consequences of AI.

Why This Matters Now

These findings from the Pew Research Center are crucial for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders. The widespread public concern about job displacement and economic inequality necessitates proactive strategies to mitigate potential negative impacts of AI. Understanding these sentiments can help guide the development of policies that support workforce retraining, foster new job creation, and ensure a more equitable distribution of AI's benefits. Ignoring these public anxieties could lead to social unrest and resistance to technological progress.

Conclusion: Navigating AI's Future with Public Sentiment in Mind

The global survey by the Pew Research Center provides a clear signal: while AI offers immense potential, public sentiment is largely characterized by concern, particularly regarding its impact on employment and economic equality. As AI tools and technologies continue to evolve, addressing these anxieties through transparent communication, robust policy frameworks, and inclusive development will be paramount. The insights from countries like Australia, South Korea, Sweden, Poland, and Japan highlight the diverse yet often shared challenges in integrating AI into society responsibly.

Sources

• AI is feared globally as the destroyer of jobs | The Verge
• Globally, More People Expect AI to Cause Job Loss Than Growth | Pew Research Center
• Comparing how Americans and others around the world view role of US globally in 2026 | Pew Research Center
• Spring 2025 Survey Data | Pew Research Center
• Global Views of International Engagement, Travel and Closeness to Others | Pew Research Center