Original article: «Trabajo decente en la economía de plataformas»: OIT adopta nueva norma global sobre derechos de trabajadores de apps

ILO Adopts Global Standards for Workers’ Rights in Platform Economy

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has officially adopted a new international standard aimed at regulating work in platforms and apps, described as «one of the most precarious labor territories in the digital economy,» as reported by El DiarioAR.

The publication highlighted the approval during the 114th International Labour Conference, where this standard was ratified. It establishes binding obligations for member states, addressing the influence of applications, algorithms, and companies that often do not recognize traditional employment relationships.

«The document also incorporates fundamental principles and rights at work within the platform economy: freedom of association, effective recognition of collective bargaining, elimination of forced labor, abolition of child labor, non-discrimination, and the right to a safe and healthy work environment,» as emphasized by El DiarioAR.

The article underscores the political signal of the agreement: the platform economy is no longer an exceptional realm governed solely by private terms and conditions, algorithmic decisions, and adhesion contracts. The ILO asserts that states must regulate this area: define responsibilities, oversee labor classification, guarantee minimum rights, provide avenues for claims, and impose limits on automated decisions.

Among the countries that voted against the measure were the United States and New Zealand, while Argentina, Bangladesh, the United Kingdom, India, Russia, and Chile were among those that abstained.

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In 2023, the World Bank estimated that there were up to 435 million digital platform workers worldwide, many of whom remain outside traditional labor protections.

Thus, this ILO agreement aims to extend labor protections to millions of individuals globally who work on digital platforms, including food delivery and transportation services. According to the approved text, it applies to everyone, regardless of their employment status.

We will continue to provide updates.