The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has 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.
Okay News reports that the new framework, known as the “Decent Work in the Platform Economy Convention, 2026,” was adopted on Friday, June 13, 2026, at the conclusion of the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva, Switzerland.
“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 ILO stated.
The convention addresses several 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. It also establishes safeguards around the use of algorithms and automated decision-making systems commonly deployed 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 ILO added.
The ILO said 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 major labour and welfare challenges. The framework seeks to strike a balance between innovation and 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 stated.
In Nigeria, drivers operating under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) recently raised concerns over poor working conditions and unsustainable fares on the Bolt ride-hailing platform. The drivers said that despite rising fuel prices, high vehicle maintenance costs, and increasing operational expenses, fares offered through the platform remain unsustainable, with many drivers left with very little income after platform commissions and other deductions despite working long hours daily.
If implemented by Nigerian labour authorities, the new ILO standard is expected to address some of the concerns raised by local platform workers.
