Labor Law Updates in the Gig Economy – Pakistan 2025
Labor Law Updates in the Gig Economy – Pakistan 2025
The gig economy in Pakistan — which includes ride-hailing drivers, freelance professionals, delivery riders, and online service providers — is growing rapidly. As of 2025, new labor law reforms are being considered to address the unique needs of gig workers.
1. What is the Gig Economy?
The gig economy refers to a labor market characterized by short-term contracts, freelance work, and flexible jobs instead of traditional permanent employment. Examples include:
- Freelancers on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer
- Ride-hailing drivers for Careem, Uber, and InDrive
- Delivery riders for Foodpanda, Cheetay, and Bykea
- Home service providers via online apps
2. Why Labor Law Updates Are Needed
Gig workers often lack access to social security, health insurance, pension plans, and minimum wage protections. The proposed updates aim to fix this gap.
3. Key 2025 Labor Law Proposals for Gig Workers
- Minimum Earnings Guarantee: Ensuring a minimum pay per hour or per job.
- Social Security Registration: Inclusion of gig workers under the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and Social Security Ordinance.
- Health & Accident Insurance: Mandatory coverage for occupational risks.
- Contract Transparency: Platforms must clearly define pay rates, commission cuts, and job expectations.
- Right to Unionize: Legal protection for forming gig worker associations.
4. Benefits for Workers
If these reforms pass, gig workers in Pakistan could benefit from:
- Steady and predictable income
- Retirement and pension savings
- Access to affordable healthcare
- Greater bargaining power
5. How Businesses Will Be Affected
Ride-hailing and delivery companies may face increased operational costs, but these reforms can also improve workforce stability and service quality.
6. How Gig Workers Can Prepare
- Keep records of your work and earnings.
- Understand your rights under labor laws.
- Join online communities of gig workers for updates.
- Register for voluntary insurance or pension schemes where possible.
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