The rapid technological advancement and Artificial intelligence (AI) have become synonymous with conversations about the future of work. Headlines often focus on which jobs are at risk and how quickly technology will replace workers. But the reality is far more complex. On 11 June 2026, researchers and practitioners from across Asia gathered at the Pullman King Power in Bangkok for a knowledge sharing session hosted by LIRNEasia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Economic and Social Analysis Unit (RESA), to explore how AI, digital transformation and platform work are reshaping labourmarkets – and what this means for workers, businesses and governments. Drawing on emerging research from across the region, the discussions made one thing clear: technology is only one part of a much bigger story. 
The rapid technological advancement and Artificial intelligence (AI) have become synonymous with conversations about the future of work. Headlines often focus on which jobs are at risk and how quickly technology will replace workers. But the reality is far more complex. On 11 June 2026, researchers and practitioners from across Asia gathered at the Pullman King Power in Bangkok for a knowledge sharing session hosted by LIRNEasia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Economic and Social Analysis Unit (RESA), to explore how AI, digital transformation and platform work are reshaping labourmarkets – and what this means for workers, businesses and governments. Drawing on emerging research from across the region, the discussions made one thing clear: technology is only one part of a much bigger story.
The technological advancements of the recent decades, including the expansion of the gig economy have given rise to increasing numbers of opportunities for flexible work for both men and women across the globe. Opportunities range from ridesharing to online freelancing to running home-based businesses with the help of social media and logistics platforms. The growth in opportunities for digital work have expanded considerably after the advent of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Flexible work arrangements – such as those offered by the gig economy—have long been argued as an enabler of women’s increased and sustained participation in the labour market. This is particularly pertinent for countries like Sri Lanka, which have tussled with low female labour force participation (LFP) rates over the years.