Fairwork in the platform economy: A Global South perspective

In what follows, we first introduce the Fairwork project, discussing its conception, the underlying theory of change and the methodology used to score gig economy platforms. The bulk of the chapter consists of four Global South country case studies where the Fairwork project was applied: Chile, South Africa, Indonesia and Ecuador. For each country, we briefly sketch a background on how the gig economy has developed. Then, we assess and rate some major gig platforms in the country using the methodology (except in Indonesia where the ratings have not yet been finalized). This is followed by a topical discussion of the findings and specific issues relevant to each country. We close with some reflections on the findings across the four countries and conclude with some remaining challenges.