Majority of Swedish Employees Use AI at Work, Often in Secret

A recent report by Företagsuniversitetet titled "Talangstrategi 2026" reveals that approximately 70% of Swedish employees utilize generative AI tools in their daily work tasks, frequently despite formal restrictions or lack of organizational support. This widespread but often clandestine use, termed "shadow AI," is driven by employees' need to manage growing mental demands and enhance productivity amid evolving workplace challenges.

Daniel Kjellsson, head of the center for future skills at Företagsuniversitetet and editor of the report, notes that early reservations about AI use stemmed from concerns about cheating, but today legal and regulatory issues primarily limit its adoption.

Despite 91% of HR directors acknowledging AI's critical role in organizational strategy, only half feel confident guiding employees on AI use, and just 36% of employees feel their leadership truly understands or supports AI. This disconnect points to a management-employee gap regarding AI integration.

The report highlights significant generational differences: younger employees adopt AI tools more frequently but tend to struggle with critical decision-making and error detection, while experienced workers employ AI strategically. The reliance on AI also leads to cognitive offloading, potentially diminishing employees' critical thinking skills.

AI adoption's implications are profound. About 7% of jobs are at risk of full automation, with 63% expected to undergo significant transformation. This triggers employee anxiety concerning job security, underscoring the need for transparent communication and clear policies to build trust and clarity in the workplace.