In recent years, generative artificial intelligence (generative AI) has burst into various sectors as a powerful tool to transform creativity, productivity and innovation.
However, when analyzing its adoption, a disturbing reality emerges: women are using this technology significantly less than men. This disparity, far from being a trivial fact, could exacerbate pre-existing gaps, such as gender gaps in salaries and job opportunities.
Fortunately, some recent studies present a more encouraging picture, indicating that this gap is closing faster than initially thought.
Let’s explore the causes, implications and possible solutions around this issue, based on three key pieces of research.
Women and the adoption of generative AI
According to a report from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), women show lower adoption of generative AI tools compared to men.
The study data suggests that this gap not only reflects a lack of access or interest, but is deeply linked to structural, social and cultural factors.
Women tend to be underrepresented in technologically advanced sectors and face challenges such as gender discrimination and the lack of female role models in technology.
Additionally, implicit biases in AI systems, created primarily by male-dominated teams, could also discourage their use among women.
An avoidable disadvantage
The BIS warns that the risk of not addressing this gap is significant. Generative AI promises to automate tasks and improve efficiency in various fields, from graphic design to data analysis.
If women do not take advantage of these tools, they could be disadvantaged in a labor market increasingly reliant on advanced technological skills, thus perpetuating the gender pay disparity.
Implications of the technological gap
The gap in the use of generative AI not only impacts women on an individual level, but also has ramifications for the economy as a whole.
A recent report by consulting firm McKinsey points out that the unequal adoption of advanced technologies could intensify wage gaps between men and women.
Currently, it is estimated that women earn on average 20% less than men worldwide. This pay gap could widen if women do not fully participate in emerging sectors driven by generative AI.
A multiplying factor
Many of the professions with the greatest growth potential in AI are already dominated by men, such as AI model developers, automated content designers, and advanced data analysts,
Additionally, the inherent bias in some AI models can have a multiplier effect.
Women working in sectors highly influenced by AI, such as human resources or healthcare, could face systems that reinforce gender stereotypes or penalize candidates during automated selection processes.
A more optimistic future: the gap is closing rapidly
Although the current outlook may seem bleak, a recent Deloitte report offers reasons for optimism. According to this study, the adoption of generative AI by women is growing at a rapid pace (at least in the United States).
In 2023, only 11% of women had experienced or used generative AI tools, compared to 20% of men. However, by 2024, female adoption had tripled, while male adoption grew at a more moderate pace.
Deloitte predicts that generative AI adoption rates among men and women in the United States will reach parity by the end of 2025, and women could even surpass men in this regard.
This rapid change is not unique to the United States. In Europe, the report shows similar trends: in countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany, women are adopting generative technologies at a faster rate than men.
This closing of the gap could translate into more equitable job opportunities and better access to high-demand technology roles.
The challenge of trust and bias in AI
Despite progress, one significant obstacle remains: trust in AI tools. According to Deloitte, women express less confidence that AI vendors will adequately protect their data.
Only 18% of women surveyed expressed high trust in AI systems, compared to 31% of men.
Lack of confidence is not trivial. It can discourage women from using these tools regularly or from exploring their full potential in sensitive tasks, such as financial management or medical advice.
Additionally, limited female representation on the teams developing these systems perpetuates biases, further reducing user confidence.
What can be done?
To address this problem, Deloitte proposes that technology companies implement concrete measures, such as improving data security and offering greater transparency in the use of information.
Including more women in AI development teams could not only reduce bias in systems, but also lead to more representative and accessible products for all.
Education and training are key to ensuring that women can fully benefit from generative AI.
According to McKinsey, companies and governments should invest in specific training programs for women, focused on advanced technological skills.
From gap to opportunity
Women’s adoption of generative AI represents a critical challenge, but also a transformative opportunity.
While initial statistics show a significant gap in the use of this technology, rapid advances in adoption suggest that it is possible to close this disparity in a matter of years.
The path to equality in the use of generative AI will require joint efforts: from technology companies that reduce bias and increase trust, to public policies that promote training and equitable access.
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