The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has formally adopted the world’s first international labour standard specifically targeting work performed through digital platforms, including ride-hailing and delivery services such as Uber and Bolt. This landmark framework, titled the “Decent Work in the Platform Economy Convention, 2026,” was approved on Friday at the conclusion of the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The convention establishes global labour standards for workers operating through digital platforms and apps that connect service providers with customers. This development is expected to strengthen protections for millions of gig workers worldwide. According to the ILO, the convention was introduced in response to the rapid growth of the global platform economy, which has reshaped labour markets by creating new income opportunities while also exposing workers to significant labour and welfare challenges.
The new standard addresses several critical issues affecting platform workers, including fair remuneration, social protection, occupational safety and health, protection from violence and harassment, and the protection of fundamental rights at work. The ILO also noted that the convention introduces safeguards around the use of algorithms and automated decision-making systems commonly deployed by digital platforms. Describing the development as a landmark achievement, the ILO said the convention reflects the collective commitment of governments, employers, and workers to ensure fair treatment across evolving workplaces driven by technology.
The framework seeks to strike a balance between innovation and the protection of workers’ rights in the fast-growing digital economy. 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.
In Nigeria, tensions have persisted between platforms such as Uber, Bolt, and InDrive and the drivers working with them over work conditions and remuneration. Just recently, drivers raised concerns over what they described as poor working conditions and unsustainable fares on the Bolt ride-hailing platform. This global standard arrives amid other notable policy moves, including President Tinubu Honours for labour reforms, Tinubu Announces 81% in related economic adjustments, the World Bank Unveils new funding frameworks for digital economies, and the Uk Launches £15 in support for gig worker protections, alongside an Ai-led Cybersecurity Fintech initiative aimed at safeguarding platform transactions.
