The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted Convention No. 193 on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, the world's first legally binding treaty to protect gig and platform workers through labour rights, fair wages, social security, and algorithmic transparency.
NEWS: The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted Convention No. 193 – "Concerning Decent Work in the Platform Economy" at its 114th Session in Geneva, marking the first global legally binding treaty on gig and platform work.
Key Provisions
- Applies to all platform workers, both online and location-based (e.g., delivery, ride-hailing), in formal and informal sectors.
- Prevents misclassification of workersà Ensures timely payment and minimum wage protection where applicable.
- Guarantees freedom of association, non-discrimination, social security access, and the right to refuse unsafe work without penalty.
- Platforms must disclose automated monitoring and decision-making systems
- Provides safeguards for workers’ personal data and special protections for migrant and refugee platform workers.
- Comes into force 12 months after ratification by at least two member states.
About the ILO
- Established in 1919 under the Treaty of Versaillesà became the first UN specialized agency in 1946.
- Membershipà 187 countries; India is a founding member and has been on the Governing Body since 1922.
- Mandateà Promotes social justice, decent work, and labour rights globally.
- Awarded the 1969 Nobel Peace Prize.
- Reportsà World Employment and Social Outlook (WESO), Global Wage Report, World Social Protection Report.