The Easta Journal Law and Human Rights
Vol. 3 No. 03 (2025): The Easta Journal Law and Human Rights (ESLHR)

Legal Protection for Gig Workers in the Digital Economy: A Critical Review of Labor Relations in Indonesia

Wibowo, Sundaru Guntur (Unknown)
Susanto, Fredy (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2025

Abstract

The rapid growth of the digital economy in Indonesia has given rise to gig work arrangements, characterized by short-term, task-based employment facilitated through online platforms. While offering flexibility and new income opportunities, gig work often operates outside the scope of traditional labor laws, leaving workers without adequate legal protection. This study employs a normative legal analysis to critically review Indonesia’s industrial relations framework in addressing the rights and obligations of gig workers. The research examines relevant national legislation, judicial decisions, and comparative legal approaches from other jurisdictions, alongside international labor standards. Findings reveal that the current legal framework is insufficient to address the unique characteristics of platform-mediated work, resulting in legal uncertainty over employment classification, limited access to social protection, and weak collective bargaining rights. Drawing from comparative models and ILO conventions, the study recommends legal reforms to define gig work, introduce hybrid employment categories, extend mandatory social protection coverage, recognize gig worker associations, and establish specialized dispute resolution mechanisms. These measures are essential for balancing labor protection with the flexibility and innovation of the digital economy in Indonesia.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

eslhr

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Associated with the Eastasouth Institute, the ESLHR - The Easta Journal Law and Human Rights is a three-times-a-year publication and aims to publish scientific papers on issues involving Law and Human Rights, from an interdisciplinary perspective, encouraging the dialogue with other areas of Law and ...