Behind automated systems are people labeling data and reviewing content whose working conditions deserve public scrutiny.
Why does this matter? AI depends on human judgment as well as computing power. When the people preparing data remain invisible, buyers can miss the labor conditions behind the technology they use.
What changes? Assessing AI means examining its labor supply chain alongside its capabilities. Relevant questions include pay, unpaid tasks, contract clarity, worker representation and support for people handling disturbing material.
Who is working on this now? Kenya’s Data Labelers Association and the University of Illinois Chicago’s Center for Urban Economic Development have investigated workers’ experiences through a survey of 226 data workers.
What are the results and consequences? Their 2025 report found that 69% of respondents struggled to comfortably cover housing costs during the previous two months. Among platform workers surveyed, 53% reported completing tasks without payment in the previous year. These findings concern the surveyed workers; they should not be presented as rates for the entire global industry.
What you can do where you are now. If your workplace buys AI services, ask vendors to disclose their data-work contractors and labor standards. Request evidence of payment practices, grievance procedures and worker protections. Invite worker-led organizations into discussions about responsible procurement.
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