Artificial intelligence in Romania’s labor market: structural challenges and strategic perspectives in the digital transition

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving profound transformations in the global labor market and organizational environments, accelerating automation and digitalization. While the overall impact is largely positive—through increased efficiency and the reduction of repetitive tasks—the digital transition in Romania faces significant challenges. This paper, based on a review of academic literature and recent statistical data, identifies four major obstacles: low digitalization levels and below-average digital skills compared to the EU, a shortage of IT specialists, the absence of coherent public policies, and a possible discrepancy between the business community's declared interest and current practices. Furthermore, the current organizational culture, characterized by limited openness to innovation and opaque decision-making, slows AI adoption. Drawing on the reviewed studies, the paper proposes strategic directions to accelerate digital transformation: promoting the importance of measures for effective adaptation, investing in education and continuous training, developing soft skills, and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. The findings highlight the need for an integrated approach in which education, public policy, and organizational culture are aligned to fully harness AI’s potential and close the gap with other European countries. Given the current limited state of research in the field and the limited number of available sources, the study results should be treated with caution and should be supported by further empirical studies that provide greater clarity on how artificial intelligence is implemented and managed in Romanian organizations.