Survey: AI inequality gap is emerging in Latvia – only 23% of employees have received training

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being integrated into everyday work processes in Latvia; however, the overall preparedness of the labor market for these changes remains insufficient. A representative survey conducted in February 2026 by the research company Norstat, commissioned by ERDA and the Future of Work Institute, shows that only 23% of employed respondents have received training in artificial intelligence over the past 12 months, highlighting a significant skills development challenge in the labor market.

In only 16.2% of cases was the training provided by the employer, while a substantial share of employees acquired knowledge at their own expense. This means that more than three-quarters of Latvia’s workforce operate in an AI-driven environment without systematic support.

According to the survey data, approximately 70% of Latvia’s population already use artificial intelligence tools at work or in their daily lives. However, implementation is largely fragmented - without a unified approach or clear development strategy, and without equal access to knowledge. Only a small proportion of employers currently provide structured AI training to their employees.

“This situation creates not only individual productivity risks but also broader competitiveness challenges for the country as a whole. If artificial intelligence becomes a key factor in work efficiency, innovation, and value creation, insufficient and uneven skills development may negatively affect Latvia’s economic growth and companies’ ability to compete internationally,” said Zane Čulkstēna, Director of ERDA and the Future of Work Institute.

The survey results also highlight two significant structural differences. First, a generational gap is evident - AI usage rates decrease with age. The use of AI tools is widespread among younger age groups, while significantly lower among older groups, which in the long term may reduce the competitiveness of part of the workforce. Second, a pronounced income gap is also visible - the lower the income, the less frequent the use of AI tools. In the highest income groups, the use of these technologies is substantially higher than in the lowest income segment, creating a risk that AI could deepen existing socioeconomic inequality and create a new digital divide in the labor market.

At the same time, 46% of respondents believe that the state should take a more active role in promoting the development of AI skills, while 57% indicate that companies should assume greater responsibility in this area. These figures confirm that individual initiative alone is not sufficient - a coordinated and systemic approach is required, combining the actions of the government, the education sector, and businesses to ensure equal access to knowledge and strengthen labor market competitiveness.

“AI is already a reality in Latvia. The question is not whether it will change work - it already is. The question is whether we manage these changes or chaotically run after them. If only 23% of employees have received training, this is a clear signal of the urgent need to act. Otherwise, we risk growing inequality and a loss of competitiveness,” Čulkstēna commented.

About the Study

The survey was conducted in February 2026 by the research company Norstat, commissioned by ERDA and the Future of Work Institute. A total of 1,660 Latvian residents aged 18 to 74 participated, providing a representative insight into public attitudes and experiences related to the use of artificial intelligence in the workplace.

The study was carried out in preparation for the European forum “Future of Work in the Age of AI,” which will take place on 16 March 2026 at Hanzas Perons in Riga. The forum will bring together policymakers, business leaders, and international experts to discuss the future of work in the age of artificial intelligence and the necessary solutions to strengthen labor market competitiveness.
https://www.futureofworkeurope.org/