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Government Achievements: Employment Surge And Falling Unemployment In Cyprus

The Cypriot government has achieved remarkable success in bolstering employment and reducing unemployment, according to Labour and Social Insurance Minister Yiannis Panayiotou. Over the past two years, employment in Cyprus has soared by 4.3%, reaching an all-time high of 79.8% in 2024, while unemployment has plummeted by 21%, settling at 4.9%.

Impactful Policies And Future Goals

During a comprehensive press conference on April 15, Minister Panayiotou highlighted the government’s dedication to a human-centric policy. Key outcomes include not only increases in employment and skilled workforce development but also a significant boost in average wages. For comparison, the national employment target of 80% by 2030, part of the European Pillar of Social Rights, is anticipated to be achieved as early as 2025.

Furthermore, noteworthy strides have been made in empowering women and youth in the workforce, hitting unprecedented employment figures for these groups. The youth employment rate, now at 87%, represents a historical peak.

Sustainability And Economic Growth

Skill development focusing on green and digital education has been amplified, with training programs expanding almost sevenfold. The surge in average wages—rising to just under €2,500 in 2024 from approximately €2,000 in the previous decade—demonstrates substantial economic growth. Meanwhile, the government has ensured that wage increases surpass inflation, thereby improving living standards.

Additionally, the government’s decision to raise the minimum wage to €1,000 further exemplifies its commitment to economic stability and social cohesion.

As Cyprus continues to shape its future, the government’s policies are undeniably building a solid foundation for a prosperous and sustainable economy.

AI’s Economic Benefits Surpass Emissions Concerns According to IMF

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently highlighted the potential economic benefits of artificial intelligence (AI), projecting a global output boost of approximately 0.5% per year from 2025 to 2030. This growth is expected to surpass the environmental costs associated with higher carbon emissions from AI-driven data centers.

The report, showcased at the IMF’s spring meeting, emphasizes the need for equitable distribution of these economic gains while managing the adverse effects on our climate. The forecast indicates that AI’s contribution to GDP growth will outweigh the financial impacts of emissions, though it points out the necessity for policymakers and businesses to mitigate societal costs.

Energy Demands and Environmental Footprint

AI is set to escalate global electricity demand, potentially reaching 1,500 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030, mirroring the energy consumption of countries like India today.

The increasing demand for data processing capacity could result in higher greenhouse gas emissions, but the AI industry aims to offset these with advancements in renewable energy technologies.

AI: A Driver for Energy Efficiency?

Analysts suggest that AI could potentially reduce carbon emissions through improved energy efficiency, fostering advancements in low-carbon technologies across sectors such as power, food, and transport. Grantham Research Institute stresses the significance of strategic action from governments and industries to facilitate this transition.

The role of AI in the global economy continues to evolve, stirring debates not only about its economic potential but also its environmental impact.

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