The International Labour Organisation has adopted the world’s first global labour standard dedicated to work carried out through digital platforms, including ride-hailing and delivery services such as Uber and Bolt.
The framework, titled the “Decent Work in the Platform Economy Convention, 2026,” was approved on Friday at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
It sets out international labour rules for workers engaged via apps and digital platforms that link service providers with customers, marking a major step expected to improve protections for millions of gig economy workers worldwide.
According to the ILO, the convention was introduced in response to the rapid expansion of the global platform economy, which has transformed labour markets by generating new income opportunities while also exposing workers to significant labour and welfare challenges.
“The Convention applies to digital labour platforms and platform workers, irrespective of their employment classification, and provides a global framework for promoting decent work across the growing sector,” the organisation stated.
The convention tackles a range of issues affecting platform workers, including fair pay, social protection, occupational safety and health, protection from violence and harassment, and the safeguarding of fundamental rights at work.
The ILO also stated that the new labour standard introduces protections governing the use of algorithms and automated decision-making systems widely used by digital platforms.
“The Convention also establishes safeguards on the use of algorithms and automated decision making systems, requiring greater transparency and accountability in digital labour management practices,” the organisation added.
Describing the development as a landmark achievement, the ILO said the convention reflects the shared commitment of governments, employers, and workers to ensure fair treatment in workplaces that are rapidly evolving through technology.
It further explained that the framework is designed to balance innovation with the protection of workers’ rights in the fast-growing digital economy.
“This Convention marks a historic step in shaping a future of work that is fair, inclusive and grounded in social justice for millions of platform workers worldwide.
“The adoption of this Convention demonstrates the determination of ILO constituents to ensure that technological progress benefits both businesses and workers,” the organisation added.
According to the organisation, the convention is expected to support member states in strengthening labour protections while encouraging sustainable growth and innovation within the platform economy.
Observers at the conference described the adoption of the convention as one of the most significant labour policy developments in recent years, given the rapid expansion of gig and platform based work globally.
