The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted a new global labour standard aimed at protecting workers in the growing platform economy. The Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy introduces new safeguards for people working through digital platforms, including delivery workers, ride-hailing workers and online freelancers.
The new convention was adopted during the International Labour Conference in Geneva and marks the first international labour standard specifically focused on working conditions in the digital platform sector. It aims to ensure that technological progress is balanced with fair employment practices and worker protections.
Digital platforms have created new opportunities for income and flexible work, but they have also raised concerns about job security, employment status, social protection and the use of algorithms to manage workers. The new framework seeks to address these challenges by promoting decent work principles across the sector.
The convention establishes protections related to fundamental labour rights, workplace safety, fair pay and protection from unjustified termination or removal from digital platforms. These safeguards apply regardless of a worker’s employment classification under national laws.
The development is particularly significant for Türkiye, where platform-based work has grown rapidly, especially in delivery services. The ILO has highlighted the importance of ensuring that couriers and digital freelancers receive appropriate labour protections as the economy continues to transform.
The new standard allows countries to review and strengthen their own regulations while considering local labour market conditions. Once ratified by member states, governments will be expected to align policies and practices with the convention’s principles.
The ILO says the adoption represents an important step toward creating a more inclusive digital economy where innovation and worker rights can progress together. The convention aims to support a future of work built on fairness, social protection and dignity for all workers.
