Health, Safety, Well-Being and Economic Security Implications of Gig Work: An Interdisciplinary Perspective

This paper explores the complex issues surrounding gig work and its implications for workers' health, safety, well-being, and economic security. It argues for an interdisciplinary approach to addressing these challenges, emphasizing that single-pronged solutions are insufficient to tackle the multifaceted nature of the problem.

Key points:

1. Definition and characteristics of gig work, including its digital platform-based nature and flexibility.
2. Analysis of the pros and cons of gig work, including potential income, autonomy, and job control, as well as the lack of traditional employment benefits and protections.
3. Discussion of the health and safety risks associated with gig work, such as job stress, long work hours, and physical hazards.
4. Examination of the economic insecurity faced by gig workers due to unpredictable income and lack of benefits.
5. Call for an interdisciplinary approach to develop comprehensive solutions, including changes in work design, worker support systems, and policy reforms.

Written for International Labor Organization