ILO Approves First Convention on Digital Platform Work as Colombia, Mexico Tighten Gig Rules
Updated
Updated · Littler Mendelson PC · Jun 23
ILO Approves First Convention on Digital Platform Work as Colombia, Mexico Tighten Gig Rules
3 articles · Updated · Littler Mendelson PC · Jun 23
Summary
The International Labour Organization approved by consensus its first convention on decent work through digital platforms in June 2026, setting global principles for pay, social security, organizing rights and collective bargaining.
The convention responds to fast growth in app-based work and persistent labor informality, aiming to force clearer protections in relationships between platforms and the people providing services.
Colombia, which played an active role in the talks, now lets platforms choose either formal employment contracts or non-labor agreements while still paying workers' social security contributions.
Mexico moved earlier, passing a December 2024 law that treats many platform workers as employees if they earn at least 1 monthly minimum wage, while lower earners remain independent digital platform workers.
Together, the ILO pact and Latin American reforms show regulators trying to balance labor-market flexibility with stronger protections as gig work expands across borders.
As new laws add costs, will gig platforms in Latin America exploit loopholes or genuinely improve conditions for their workers?
Mexico's gig workers now have benefits included in their pay. Is this a pioneering model for worker rights or a hidden pay cut?
Platform Work at a Crossroads: The Impact of ILO Convention No. 193 and Landmark 2025–2026 Reforms in Mexico and Colombia
Overview
The adoption of ILO Convention No. 193 on June 12, 2026, marks a historic milestone as the first binding international treaty focused on the platform economy. This Convention recognizes the importance of millions of platform workers worldwide, ensuring their rights are no longer overlooked. It sets a new global standard by prioritizing human dignity over digital exploitation and aims to secure fundamental rights such as decent work, social security, wage protection, and strong data rights. As countries and companies adapt to these changes, the Convention is expected to shape fairer working conditions and inspire further reforms in the rapidly evolving gig economy.