Are Unions the Missing Voice in the AI Debate?

Nick Scott: Championing Ethical AI in the Labor Movement

The UnionBase team recently had the pleasure of interviewing Nick Scott, the Director of the Centre for Responsible Union AI. Nick shared his insights on the rapid adoption of AI technologies, the role of unions in guiding its use, and how cross-border collaboration can help shape an ethical and worker-friendly future. In our conversation we also explored how unions can strategically leverage AI to strengthen their movements while safeguarding the values and rights of workers.

The Centre for Responsible Union AI is actively collecting and publishing case studies of unions using AI to improve their effectiveness and build solidarity. Through Unions 21, they offer a variety of AI training for union staff, helping them develop the necessary skills to navigate this new technological landscape. You can visit their website and subscribe to stay updated on the latest case studies and training opportunities.

The Role of Unions in Technology Adoption

One of the core themes of our conversation was the need for unions to be proactive in the adoption of technology. As many of you know from our many years work, thaing with the labor movementt’s no easy mountain to climb. Scott notes that technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and unions cannot afford to be passive observers. Instead, they must become technology leaders, guiding the responsible use of AI and other digital tools within the workforce. This perspective aligns with Scott's earlier statement at a Uni Global conference, where he echoed the sentiment that unions must lead, not follow, in adopting new technologies.

However, as Scott points out, this leadership doesn't mean blindly accepting every technological advancement. Unions must use AI strategically—sometimes to fight against its potential harms, sometimes to leverage it in the fight for better conditions. Scott draws on historical examples where unions have used the tools of their time, even those used against them, to strengthen their movements. He stresses the importance of using AI to fight for workers' rights, not just in defense of jobs but in building a better future for all.

This dynamic approach to AI adoption—using technology to fight against its negative impacts—is what Scott believes will define the future of unions in the digital age. Unions, he argues, must remain flexible and adapt quickly, using AI as a tool when it benefits workers and challenging it when it threatens their rights and values.

The Future of Cross-Border AI Collaboration

As AI continues to shape industries globally, the need for shared strategies and approaches is more critical than ever. Because of a politically fraught climate in the United States that may create challenges, the potential for cooperation between labor movements across borders is more important than ever.

Scott highlights that, while the likelihood of AI regulation in the U.S. seems slim in the near term, there are still ample opportunities for unions to learn from each other and collaborate on issues like ethical AI. With technology connecting us across borders, unions in Canada and the U.S. can share ideas, strategies, and research, building a stronger collective voice to influence AI policies globally. Scott emphasizes that AI allows us to bridge distances, enabling unions to work together even when political landscapes may be in flux.

The Importance of Diverse Perspectives

As UnionBase continues to grow its community, it aims to bring together not just union members and labor leaders, but also investors, AI builders, and skeptics of the technology. Scott agrees that it's crucial to have a variety of perspectives in these discussions, especially from those who may be critical of AI or its potential impact on workers. Involving critics ensures that unions don't become too enamored with the promises of technology but instead maintain a balanced, thoughtful approach to its adoption.

Scott's philosophy is that having dissenting voices within the conversation can prevent the over-enthusiasm that might lead to uncritical adoption of technology. As unions explore how AI can be used to their advantage, it’s important to remember that the conversation must be inclusive of all viewpoints—especially those that challenge the status quo. By bringing diverse perspectives into the conversation, unions can better navigate the complexities of AI, ensuring they don't fall into the trap of following tech trends without considering their broader implications.

The Path Forward: Unions as Technology Leaders

During our discussion Scott reiterated the essential role that unions must play in shaping the future of AI. He believes that unions can be at the forefront of technology adoption, but this requires proactive engagement, learning, and collaboration. AI is not a force to be feared but rather a tool to be wielded carefully and strategically. Unions need to use it to protect workers, fight for their rights, and ultimately ensure that technology serves the broader good, not just corporate interests.

As the conversation wraped up, Scott’s final thoughts emphasized that unions must remain open-minded while staying true to their core values. The future of work, shaped by AI and automation, is still being written, and unions must actively participate in this process, ensuring that the voice of workers remains strong and influential.

TLDR:

Nick Scott's leadership in the Centre for Responsible Union AI provides unions with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of AI. By fostering international collaboration, embracing ethical AI practices, and maintaining a leadership role in technology adoption, unions can strengthen their movements and protect workers' rights in the digital age. Unions should not just be reacting to the rapid pace of change but actively shaping it, ensuring that AI serves the interests of all workers.

For more information about how unions are using AI and to access AI training resources, visit the Centre for Responsible Union AI and subscribe for updates.

Nick is the Director of the Centre for Responsible Union AI, which is a project of Unions 21, a European not for profit focused on trade union renewal. The Centre aims to develop understanding, skills and support around AI in the labour movement, so that unions can strategically harness ethical and worker-friendly digital and AI to build their strength into the future.