UN adopts treaty setting standards for gig economy workers

The United Nations has adopted a landmark treaty establishing global employment standards for gig economy workers, marking the first binding international agreement of its kind. The "Decent Work in the Platform Economy Convention" was approved at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva. It seeks to provide crucial labor protections to the estimated 435 million people worldwide who work through digital platforms, such as those in food delivery and taxi services. These protections include enforcing minimum wage requirements, ensuring healthcare and sick leave, and mandating social security contributions. The convention also addresses the common practice of classifying workers as independent contractors rather than employees, a tactic used by app-controlling companies that dictate work times and locations. The treaty applies to all digital labor platforms and workers, regardless of whether they operate in the formal or informal economy. Amanda Brown, vice chair of the ILO’s Workers’ Group, hailed the agreement as a significant moment for platform workers, acknowledging years of documented abuse and exploitation. She stated, "For the first time in the history of international law, the women and men who move our cities, who clean and care in our homes … will be named, recognised and protected by a binding international standard." The International Organisation of Employers (IOE), representing approximately 50 million companies, welcomed the inclusion of flexibility within the framework, noting that it respects national legal systems. Roberto Suarez Santos, IOE Secretary-General, said, "It respects national legal systems and allows countries to determine employment status according to their own laws and established criteria." While the ILO lacks direct enforcement power, member states can file complaints, potentially leading to investigations and increased pressure on governments to comply.

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For the first time in the history of international law, the women and men who move our cities, who clean and care in our homes … will be named, recognised and protected by a binding international standard.