Where Talent Can’t Be Replaced by Automation: Study Shows

• The United States ranks first among countries where AI cannot replace human soft power, with the most Nobel Prize Winners at 428.

• Switzerland stands out with the highest human development index, reflecting high salaries and strong education.

• France secures fifth place with its cultural influence, having 12 Oscar winners, the most in the world.

  
  

By 2030, AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs around the world. A new study by a digital entertainment platform, JB identifies the countries where AI automation is least likely to replace human soft power.

The research examines key factors, such as the Human Development Index measuring life expectancy, education, and income levels; Global Talent Competitiveness Index evaluating a country’s ability to attract and retain skilled workers; Innovation Index assessing support for creativity, research, and new technologies; Global Soft Power Index reflecting cultural influence, values, and diplomacy; as well as number of Nobel and Oscar winners in each country. These factors combined to calculate a Human Soft Power Score for each country, which highlights the countries where human creativity and influence are most likely to endure in AI automation.

The United States ranks first among countries where AI automation cannot replace human soft power. It holds the highest global soft power index of 79, reflecting its strong diplomatic relations with other nations, as well as trade agreements. Americans have earned 428 Nobel Prizes, more than three times that of any other country, underscoring the nation’s strength in scientific research.

Switzerland takes the second spot on the list, with a Soft Power Reliance Score of 83. The country leads globally in innovation, with 20K scientists. With a global talent competitiveness score of 79, Switzerland stands out with high salaries and a strong job market that attracts talent from all over the world.

The United Kingdom follows in third place, with a score of 80. The country has a strong scientific foundation with 98K researchers and 143 Nobel Prizes, making it second only to the US. The nation also holds the second-highest global soft power index of 72, showing its influence on the international stage.

Germany ranks fourth, with its scientists earning 115 Nobel Prizes, the third-most in the world. With a high Human Development Index of 0.96, Germany shows high-quality education and a strong job market, which allows residents to adapt to AI-driven changes. The country also has one of the highest Global Soft Power Index scores at 70, reflecting its global influence.

France secures the fifth position among countries leading in human soft power beyond AI, with a score of 74. With 12 Oscar winners, the most in the world, the nation stands out for its cultural creativity. The country’s Soft Power Index of 67 shows its influence on the European political stage.

Sweden is sixth on the list, with a score of 73. Similar to Germany, it has a Human Development Index of 0.96, providing work and education opportunities for residents. Sweden ranks second in innovation, just behind Switzerland, and is known for its world-leading digital technologies.

Denmark takes seventh place on the list of countries where human soft power remains irreplaceable. Similar to Switzerland, it holds the second-highest talent competitiveness index of 77, attracting skilled professionals through a strong job market and competitive salaries. With four Oscar winners, Denmark matches Germany in cinematic achievements.

Japan ranks eighth, with an average IQ score of 106, one of the highest worldwide, and a scientific community of 41K researchers. The country earned 31 Nobel Prizes, highlighting the nation’s long-standing scientific traditions. The country also ranks third in global soft power, with an index of 71, reflecting its focus on strengthening diplomatic relations.

Canada holds the ninth spot, with a score of 67. The country's talent competitiveness index of 70 shows an active job market and high salaries similar to the US. Backed by 61K active researchers and a Human Development Index of 0.94, Canada has a highly educated workforce and active adult learning programs.

The Netherlands rounds out the top ten countries where human soft power remains irreplaceable, with a score of 66. The country’s population has an average IQ of 100, and with a Human Development Index of 0.96, the Netherlands offers one of the best education systems in the world.

A spokesperson from JB commented on the study:

“AI can enhance efficiency, but it cannot replace what makes nations truly influential: their culture, creativity, and human insight. Countries that invest in education, leadership, and the arts preserve their uniqueness and turn human potential into lasting global impact. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, it is this blend of talent, values, and innovation that ensures enduring influence and meaningful progress.”