A new report by CSF explores multiple dimensions of platform-based gig work in Sri Lanka, drawing on primary research since 2023 and building on previous research conducted in 2022. The report titled, ‘Flexibility and Fairness in Platform Labour: Navigating Gig Work in Colombo’ delves into issues that are under-explored in the Sri Lankan context, and provides new insights relevant for platform companies, worker rights organisations, international development agencies, and government institutions.
As platform work continues to evolve, it is essential to take a closer look at how gig-workers operate – understanding it beyond the simplicity of apps. The findings from this study highlight the opportunities and challenges faced by those engaged in geographically-tethered gig work, recognising the flexibility it offers but also unpacking the layers of precarity and concerns around fairness. As highlighted throughout the report, flexibility and freedom that gig work offers, often comes with the cost of algorithmic control, lack of social security nets, and protection for occupational safety and health. The study covers the following key thematics:
Rather than attempts to ‘formalise’ gig work in the strict sense, steps need to be taken to balance the flexibility that gig work offers, while ensuring employee protection and enhancing platform accountability. The report argues that a balanced approach is needed. While the provision of worker protections is important, it is also important to note that one of the appealing characteristics of the gig-economy model is the ability of workers to be flexible, and platform companies’ role as a facilitator. The authors put forward key areas of action for three stakeholder groups to consider – government, platform companies, and employer and employee organisations.
