Russian MP Predicts AI Will Gradually Replace Computer-Only Office Jobs

Employees whose work is confined entirely to a computer could be gradually replaced by artificial intelligence in the near future, according to Alexander Ivachev, a member of the State Duma committee on digital development and AI.

Speaking to RIA Novosti, Ivachev said the shift would affect big data work, accounting, analytics, legal document flow and customer service - anywhere physical labor isn't required and only information is handled.

He added that the next step, already being pursued by major corporations, is embedding AI in physical form, such as humanoid robots. Ivachev called that a prospect for the coming decade but said preparations should begin now.

He stressed his personal position and that of the Communist Party faction: AI must serve people, and using neural networks for mass layoffs and staff cuts is unacceptable. Digitalization, he said, must go hand in hand with retraining workers and preserving social guarantees, with technology meant to improve citizens' quality of life rather than simply maximize corporate profit.