The convention, adopted at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, extends basic labour standards to workers whose jobs are managed through digital platforms, including ride hailing, food delivery, logistics, e-commerce and online freelance services.
While the convention recognises that platform workers may be classified as either employees or independent contractors, it establishes for the first time a set of protections that apply regardless of employment status.
The move is seen as a significant breakthrough, as many technology platforms have long classified workers as independent contractors, allowing them to avoid obligations related to minimum wages, social security, workplace safety and other labour rights.
The ILO said the rapid expansion of the digital economy has brought profound changes to labour markets worldwide, while regulations have struggled to keep pace.
According to World Bank estimates published in 2023, as many as 435 million people worldwide work online under gig economy arrangements, largely outside traditional labour protection frameworks.
