Nederlands
English
Deutsch
Français
Español
Português
What is AI Job Replacement?
Artificial intelligence job replacement refers to the process where AI systems and automation technologies take over tasks, roles, or entire positions previously performed by human workers. According to a groundbreaking 2026 survey by the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) 45% of the respondants believe their jobs could be partially or completely replaced by artificial intelligence. This comprehensive study reveals that 41% expect partial replacement while 4% anticipate complete job displacement by AI technologies.
Breaking Down the CBS Survey Results
The CBS survey, conducted in early 2026, provides unprecedented insights into Dutch workers' perceptions of AI's workplace impact. The research involved thousands of employed adults across various sectors and demographics, offering a representative snapshot of national sentiment toward artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Key Statistics from the 2026 AI Workplace Study
- 45% of workers believe AI could replace their jobs (41% partially, 4% completely)
- 43% of employees currently use AI tools in their work
- 56% of AI users believe their jobs could be replaced vs. 37% of non-users
- 75% of adults think certain jobs will disappear due to AI
- 64% expect AI will lead to loss of knowledge and skills among workers
- 57% anticipate AI will increase workplace productivity
Demographic Differences in AI Perceptions
The CBS research reveals significant demographic variations in how Dutch workers perceive AI's impact. Younger workers aged 18-25 are more likely to expect job replacement than those over 25, reflecting generational differences in technology exposure and career expectations. Interestingly, while men and women report similar expectations about AI taking over their work, women express greater concern about these developments, with 54% of women expressing worry compared to 43% of men.
Educational background also plays a crucial role. University and HBO graduates who already use AI tools are more likely to expect partial job displacement, suggesting that familiarity with AI technology increases awareness of its potential to automate tasks. This trend mirrors global patterns where automation in European workplaces shows similar educational correlations.
The Productivity Paradox: AI as Both Threat and Opportunity
While concerns about job displacement dominate the conversation, the CBS survey reveals a more nuanced reality. A majority of Dutch adults (57%) expect AI to increase productivity by enabling faster task completion and more efficient workflows. This productivity paradox highlights AI's dual nature as both a potential threat to employment and a tool for enhancing human capabilities.
Sarah Evink, chairperson of the Interstedelijk Studenten Overleg (ISO), emphasizes the educational implications: 'These CBS figures prove we can no longer ignore AI. If we want to prepare today's students for the future, AI and digitalization must receive more attention in education.' The ISO advocates for curriculum reforms that integrate AI literacy across all disciplines, preparing students for a transformed labor market.
Industry-Specific Impacts and Sector Vulnerabilities
The CBS data suggests certain sectors face greater AI disruption risks. Administrative roles, customer service positions, and routine analytical jobs show higher vulnerability to automation. However, the survey also indicates that 46% of respondents believe AI could help solve personnel shortages in specific sectors, particularly healthcare and technology.
This sectoral analysis aligns with broader European trends where German manufacturing automation has demonstrated similar patterns of job transformation rather than elimination. The Dutch experience suggests that while AI may change job requirements, complete replacement remains relatively rare, affecting only 4% of workers according to current expectations.
Educational Responses and Future Workforce Preparation
The ISO's call for increased AI education reflects growing recognition that workforce preparation must evolve. Dutch educational institutions are beginning to integrate AI literacy into curricula, but progress varies significantly across sectors and institutions. The challenge lies in balancing technical AI skills with the human capabilities that remain difficult to automate, such as creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving.
As the EU digital skills initiative gains momentum, Dutch policymakers face pressure to accelerate educational reforms. The CBS data provides crucial evidence for these policy discussions, highlighting both public concerns and opportunities related to AI workplace integration.
Frequently Asked Questions About AI Job Replacement
What percentage of Dutch workers expect AI to replace their jobs?
According to the 2026 CBS survey, 45% of Dutch workers believe AI could replace their jobs - 41% expect partial replacement and 4% anticipate complete displacement.
Who is most concerned about AI job replacement?
Women express greater concern (54%) than men (43%), and younger workers aged 18-25 show higher concern levels than older age groups.
Does using AI increase concerns about job replacement?
Yes - 56% of AI users believe their jobs could be replaced, compared to only 37% of workers who don't use AI tools.
What positive impacts do workers expect from AI?
57% expect increased productivity, 46% believe AI could solve personnel shortages, and many anticipate faster task completion and workflow improvements.
How should education respond to AI workplace changes?
The ISO recommends increased AI and digitalization education across all disciplines to prepare students for transformed labor markets.
Sources
CBS Official Survey Results 2026
