Chinese state media warns AI could worsen job discrimination and break labour laws
- Economic Daily calls on employers to be aware of gender, age and birthplace bias when using artificial intelligence to assess candidates
- Beijing aims to use the technology in its economic recovery and counter long-term economic challenges, including a shrinking workforce
The article said that while AI could make preliminary screening of job candidates more efficient, current algorithms and standards for AI interviews could “hardly fully reflect the complexity and diversity of human behaviour”.
Government agencies should also take measures to prevent risks and investigate any violations of labour laws with the use of algorithms, it said, noting that a sound regulatory mechanism should be established to prevent the misuse of the technology.
China has also sought strict regulatory control over the use of the technology, citing cybersecurity concerns.
In recent years, Chinese media reports and public debate have drawn attention to the “age 35 phenomenon”, referring to job discrimination that typically starts around that age. Experts have warned that age discrimination could have potentially serious economic consequences as the country’s population and workforce shrink.
Chinese lawmakers and political advisers have also voiced concerns about potential issues arising from the use of AI and called for effective regulation.
The Monday article noted that government agencies should pay special attention to ensure that AI interviews meet the requirements of relevant laws and regulations.
It also highlighted privacy concerns, noting the potential risk of personal data leaks related to AI interview videos and storage of these videos. The use of the technology should protect against excessive personal data collection and avoid leaks, it said.