Workplace robots 'could create double the jobs they destroy'

The rise of machines, robots and algorithms in the workplace is expected to create double the number of jobs than it puts at risk of being replaced, the Guardian reports.

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), around 133million jobs globally could be created by the middle of the next decade due to rapid technological advances – this is compared with the 75million jobs that are at risk of displacement.

The WEF report indicates that new technologies have the competence to both disrupt and complement new ways of working – similar to previous periods of economic history such as the Industrial Revolution.

Klaus Schwab, chairman of the WEF, said that employment can reap the benefits of technology but was not a “foregone conclusion”. In order for it to work seamlessly, it would require greater investment in training and education to help workers adapt.