The International Labour Organization (ILO) has formally passed a Resolution committing to address decent work in the platform economy – a historic breakthrough for platform workers everywhere.
For years, the ITF has spearheaded a global push to ensure platform workers – from couriers to ride-hail drivers and beyond – are no longer left out of labour protections.
Last month, those efforts bore fruit as governments, employers, and workers at the 2025 International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva united behind a new Resolution that will see the ILO negotiate and adopt a Convention and Recommendation specifically addressing the platform economy in 2026.
This is the first time that governments, employers and workers have all committed to establish international standards specifically for platform workers – a massive step forward in closing the regulatory gaps that have allowed digital labour platforms to exploit workers unchecked.
“This is more than a procedural step, it’s a global recognition of the rights of platform workers and the legitimacy of their struggles,” said Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary. “We have always said that the future of work must be built on justice and dignity, and now we have the global framework to make that future a reality.”
ITF’s leadership recognised
From lobbying national governments to amplifying workers' stories and leading the response to the ILO’s global survey, ITF affiliates and rider- and ride-hail-networks have been central to the campaign. At the heart of what’s needed in the Convention and Recommendation is the need key protections on algorithmic management, fair pay, worker representation, and occupational safety and health.
“This is your win: the riders, the couriers, the unions who’ve fought for years for recognition, rights, and representation,” said Cotton.
What’s next
While the Resolution marks a monumental milestone, the journey is far from over and the coming 12 months are critical. The ITF will work tirelessly to support unions’ lobbying efforts in ensuring that the upcoming Convention and Recommendation are voted on during the 2026 ILC discussions and are shaped by the lived realities and experiences of platform workers, securing enforceable rights and protections that reflect their urgent needs.
“This moment is not just a policy victory, it is a testament to the power of worker-led campaigns, cross-border solidarity, and union leadership in the digital age. Together, we are making history,” said Baker Khundakji, ITF Future of Work Lead.
