Despite historically low global unemployment rates, a significant portion of the world’s workforce harbors deep concerns about job security. A recent comprehensive survey, the People at Work 2026 report, revealed that less than a quarter (22%) of workers worldwide strongly believe their jobs are safe from elimination. This sentiment of insecurity is compounded by the widespread practice of unpaid work, with 62% of employees globally reporting they dedicate up to five uncompensated hours each week to their roles.

The feeling of job insecurity is pervasive, with no single market surveyed showing a majority of workers confident in their job stability. While Nigeria reported the highest level of security at 38%, Japan registered the lowest at a mere 5%. The prevalence of unpaid labor extends beyond a few extra hours; an additional 26% of workers contribute six to fifteen unpaid hours weekly, and 12% work 16 or more uncompensated hours. This trend is particularly pronounced among management and senior leadership, where half of upper managers and C-suite executives log at least six unpaid hours, and 20% exceed 16 hours weekly. While such dedication might appear as commitment, it often comes with trade-offs, as these highly engaged individuals are also more prone to feeling less productive, less likely to thrive, and more inclined to seek new employment.

The integration of artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT, into daily workflows since 2022 has introduced a new dynamic. While AI promises enhanced productivity, the survey indicates a complex relationship with worker sentiment. Daily AI users were four times more likely than non-users to report feeling less productive than they could be, suggesting a potential psychological impact where reliance on AI might diminish a sense of personal accomplishment. However, the picture isn’t entirely negative; frequent AI users also reported higher engagement, reduced stress levels, and a more positive outlook on their team dynamics. Notably, 30% of daily AI users were fully engaged at work, compared to only 14% of those who never use AI.

Overall employee engagement remains a significant challenge, despite some improvements since the pandemic. In 2025, only 19% of the global workforce was fully engaged, with considerable regional variations—Brazil leading at 29% and China at 11%. Regionally, the Middle East and Africa showed the highest engagement at 25%, while Asia-Pacific lagged at 15%. Employers have a clear path to improving these metrics: investing in employee skills development, fostering trust, helping workers connect with purpose in their roles, and actively working to reduce workplace stress. The data strongly supports the impact of employer investment, with 53% of workers who felt supported in their development reporting full engagement, a stark contrast to the 12% engagement rate among those lacking such support.

Key Takeaways

• Less than one-third of global workers feel secure in their jobs, despite historically low unemployment rates.
• A majority of workers, particularly managers and senior leaders, regularly contribute significant unpaid hours, which can lead to reduced productivity and a higher likelihood of seeking new employment.
• While AI users report higher engagement and less stress, they are also more likely to feel less productive, highlighting a complex relationship between technology adoption and worker sentiment.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

This survey reveals a critical disconnect in the modern workforce: economic stability doesn’t equate to job security or high engagement. For businesses, this signals a looming challenge in talent retention and overall productivity. The widespread unpaid work, especially among leadership, suggests a culture of overwork that, while seemingly committed, can lead to burnout and a disengaged workforce actively seeking alternatives. The nuanced impact of AI—boosting engagement and reducing stress but paradoxically lowering perceived productivity—underscores the need for thoughtful integration strategies. Companies must move beyond simply deploying technology to fostering environments where employees feel valued, secure, and purposeful. Failure to address these underlying sentiments could lead to increased turnover, diminished innovation, and a less resilient global economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do workers feel insecure despite low global unemployment?
A: The feeling of insecurity stems from various factors including rapid technological advancements, automation fears, economic uncertainties, and a perceived lack of investment in employee skills by employers, leading to concerns about job relevance and stability.

Q: What are the potential negative consequences of widespread unpaid work for employees?
A: While some highly engaged workers find meaning in extra hours, extensive unpaid work can lead to increased stress, reduced personal productivity, burnout, and a higher propensity for employees to actively seek new job opportunities, ultimately impacting their well-being and loyalty.

Q: How does the use of AI tools affect employee engagement and productivity?
A: The survey indicates a dual impact: daily AI users report higher levels of engagement and lower stress. However, they are also more likely to feel less productive than they could be, suggesting that while AI might streamline tasks, it can also diminish a worker's sense of personal accomplishment or contribution.