Regulatory Context
In June 2026, the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), held in Geneva, adopted Convention No. 193 on Decent Work in the Platform Economy (C193) — the first binding international labour standard specifically designed for workers who earn their income through digital work platforms.
The Convention reflects recognition by governments, employers, and workers from 187 ILO Member States that the rapid growth of platform-based work requires a dedicated regulatory framework, one that reconciles technological innovation, new business models, and fundamental labour rights.
Practical Impact
C193 applies universally to all digital work platforms, regardless of how national law classifies the employment status of platform workers. This is a critical feature: the protections it establishes — including adequate remuneration, protection against violence and harassment, and data privacy safeguards — extend to all platform workers, whether they are formally classified as employees, independent contractors, or otherwise.
For businesses that operate platforms or engage workers through them, this means that existing contractual structures and compliance frameworks may require review. The legal classification of workers as independent contractors does not shield an operator from obligations under C193 once ratified by the relevant Member State.
Considerations
Companies with operations or workforce engagement through digital platforms should consider:
- Reviewing existing service and collaboration agreements in light of C193’s broad personal scope.
- Assessing remuneration structures to verify alignment with the Convention’s standards.
- Evaluating data protection practices applicable to platform workers under the new framework.
- Monitoring Mexico’s ratification process and any domestic implementing legislation that may follow.
The full text of C193 is available at: https://www.ilo.org/sites/default/files/2026-06/ILC114-Convenio%20n%C3%BAm.%20193-%5BRELMEETINGS-260522-003%5D-SP.pdf
