UN labour organisation sets first global standards for gig workers

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted the first global standards to protect gig workers, marking a pivotal shift in addressing the precarious conditions of platform-based employment, according to a resolution approved in June 2022. The agreement, formally titled “World Employment and Social Outlook: The Role of the Social Dialogue in Decent Work”, outlines principles for fair treatment, including access to social protections and collective bargaining rights.

What are the key provisions of the ILO resolution?

The ILO resolution emphasizes that gig workers—those employed through digital platforms such as ride-hailing or delivery services—should be entitled to minimum wage guarantees, safe working conditions, and the right to organize. It also calls for governments and employers to establish frameworks ensuring transparency in algorithmic management and dispute resolution processes. These measures aim to bridge the gap between traditional employment and the flexible, often unpredictable nature of gig work, as noted by ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo.

Why is this significant for gig workers?

The adoption of these standards addresses a growing concern as gig work expands globally. An estimated 22% of the world’s workforce now engages in non-traditional employment, according to the ILO’s 2022 report. By defining clear responsibilities for platforms and governments, the resolution provides a benchmark for countries to regulate industries that have historically operated in legal grey areas. For example, in India, where gig workers comprise 12% of the labor force, the government has begun drafting legislation aligned with the ILO guidelines.

How do these standards differ from existing regulations?

Unlike sector-specific laws, such as the European Union’s proposed Digital Services Act, the ILO framework focuses on universal principles rather than regional mandates. It also distinguishes gig workers from independent contractors, a classification that has been contentious in jurisdictions like the U.S., where courts have ruled on a case-by-case basis. The ILO’s approach prioritizes flexibility for workers while encouraging platforms to adopt “decent work” practices, as highlighted in a Reuters analysis.

What challenges remain in implementation?

While the ILO resolution is non-binding, its influence depends on member states incorporating its guidelines into national laws. Critics argue that enforcement will be difficult given the global reach of digital platforms. For instance, a 2023 BBC investigation found that many gig workers in Southeast Asia still lack access to healthcare and pension schemes. The ILO has urged governments to establish monitoring mechanisms, but progress varies widely—countries like Brazil have introduced pilot programs, while others lag behind.

What’s next for gig workers’ rights?

The ILO plans to review the resolution’s impact in 2025, with a focus on measuring improvements in worker welfare and platform compliance. Advocacy groups, including the Global Workers’ Rights Coalition, are pushing for stricter penalties against platforms that violate the standards. As the gig economy evolves, the resolution’s success will hinge on balancing innovation with safeguards for an increasingly mobile workforce.