ILO Convention No. 193 on Platform and Gig Workers
Social Justice · Thursday, 30 July 2026
ILO Convention No. 193, adopted on 12 June 2026, establishes binding global standards for gig and platform workers, including algorithmic transparency. India abstained from voting, citing domestic legal and federal considerations.
Quick highlights
- First binding treaty for gig workers’ rights.
- Mandates algorithmic transparency and human review.
- India’s gig workforce projected at 2.35 crore by 2029–30.
- Only 15% have social security coverage.
- India abstained citing domestic conformity concerns.
Context
Adopted at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva; India abstained from voting.
Key Facts
Establishes rights irrespective of employment classification. Introduces global standards on algorithmic management and reclassification mandates under Article 9.
Significance
Addresses income insecurity, lack of social protection, and opaque algorithmic governance affecting millions of gig workers.
Challenges / Way Forward
Operationalize Code on Social Security, harmonize state-central laws, mandate algorithmic transparency, and progressively align domestic laws with Convention 193.
Exam Angle
GS II: Labour reforms, social security; GS III: Platform economy and informal workforce.
Remember this
- Adopted on 12 June 2026.
- Gig workforce projected 2.35 crore by 2029–30.
- Only 15% covered by social security.
- Algorithmic management standards introduced.
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