Artificial Intelligence, Job Quality and the Trade Union Effect: Evidence from linked Employee-Employer Data in the United Kingdom

This paper investigates the relationship between AI-enabled digital technology and two components of intrinsic job quality: work autonomy and emotional well-being at work. Using probabilistic methods, we link a nationally representative employers’ digital practices at work survey and Understanding Society, a representative household survey in the United Kingdom. Multilevel regression analysis revealed that AI investment is associated with higher wellbeing and lower work autonomy depending on technology type. Notably, while the adoption of cloud computing can positively influence employees’ emotional wellbeing, investments in AIenabled software and applications are negatively associated with work autonomy. Trade union membership and sectoral union density moderate these relationships, underscoring the importance of worker voice in mitigating the adverse effects of AI and maximizing its benefits for workers.