How AI is likely to change Germany's job market

At Germany's 2026 Digital Summit, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said AI could change the working world so fundamentally that issues like basic income deserve serious thought, despite his government's push for longer working lives. Federal Employment Agency head Andrea Nahles warned AI could cost Germany as many as 800,000 jobs in the next 15 years, though she said it could eventually create a similar number. Digital minister Karsten Wildberger said unconditional basic income could help cushion labor market upheaval, while economists remain divided on the idea's feasibility.