Artificial intelligence has become one of the defining technologies of the modern economy, influencing how people learn, work and access information. The National Youth Council of Ireland's Citizen Youth Juries report offers a timely insight into how young people view this transformation. While much of the public discussion around AI focuses on innovation and productivity, the report highlights concerns about employment, mental health and fairness. For Irish organisations, these concerns provide an early indication of the expectations that future workers will bring into the workplace.

The findings are notable because they reveal a generation that is broadly optimistic about AI's potential but uneasy about how it is being governed. Young people are not calling for restrictions on innovation. Instead, they are seeking stronger safeguards, clearer regulation and better information. As organisations accelerate AI adoption, public trust may become just as important as technological capability.

Employment concerns feature prominently throughout the report. Participants expressed anxiety about the impact of AI on entry-level jobs and future career opportunities. These concerns reflect wider global trends. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 estimates that technological change will significantly reshape labour markets over the coming decade, requiring millions of workers to acquire new skills. For employers, maintaining pathways for early career development will be essential if future talent pipelines are to remain strong.

The report also highlights concerns about young people turning to AI chatbots for companionship, emotional support and mental health advice. This issue has attracted growing attention internationally as AI systems become more sophisticated and accessible. The Ombudsman for Children has warned that children are particularly vulnerable to AI-related harms and should be a specific focus of future regulation. The challenge is not the technology itself, but ensuring that appropriate safeguards keep pace with adoption.

Another concern is the potential for AI to widen existing inequalities. Participants highlighted unequal access to technology and digital skills as a risk for future generations. The OECD has consistently linked digital capability with educational attainment, employability and economic participation. As AI becomes increasingly embedded across society, digital literacy is likely to become a core workforce competency rather than a specialist skill.

Several practical responses emerge from the report. First, employers should invest in AI literacy programmes that help workers understand how technology can complement human skills. Second, education providers should integrate digital ethics and AI awareness into learning pathways. Third, policymakers should develop clear safeguards for young people engaging with AI systems. Finally, organisations should communicate openly about how AI will affect jobs, helping to reduce uncertainty and build trust.

The NYCI report suggests that young people are approaching artificial intelligence with a mixture of optimism and caution. Their concerns reflect broader questions about workforce readiness, responsible innovation and social inclusion. Organisations that address these issues proactively will be better positioned to attract talent, strengthen trust and realise the benefits of AI in a sustainable way.

(The views expressed by the writer are his/her own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of BusinessRiver.)