We therefore need to invest in digital infrastructure, including 5G networks, to fully adjust to the new reality. Digitalisation will also bring more automation and artificial intelligence, thus providing a boost to productivity. We should encourage this with our investment policies, including investment in human capital, so that the labour force can successfully participate in this brave new digital economy.
Here I see a connection with the third great force that will shape our future – climate change. Investment in green technology can not only help reduce CO2 emissions or bring about cheaper renewable energy. Large-scale and ambitious green investment programmes can also help offset the negative effects of automation – the loss of jobs and growing regional inequalities.