Online gig work is growing rapidly, but workers lack job protections, a World Bank report says


People stand near the entrance to the World Bank building in Washington. Online gig work is growing globally, particularly in the developing world, creating an important source of employment for women and young people in poorer countries where jobs are scarce, according to a new World Bank report. — AP

WASHINGTON: Online gig work is growing globally, particularly in the developing world, creating an important source of employment for women and young people in poorer countries where jobs are scarce, according to a World Bank report released on Sept 7.

The report estimates the number of global online gig workers at as many as 435 million people and says demand for gig work increased 41% between 2016 and the first quarter of 2023. That boost is generating concern, though, among worker rights advocates about the lack of strong job protections in the gig economy, where people work job to job with little security and few employment rights.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Tech News

How much water does AI actually use? Depends on whom you ask
South Korea's consumer agency to order SK Telecom to compensate 58 hacking victims
Opinion: What happens to online discussion forums when AI is the first place people turn?
A Reddit post led to a breakthrough in the Brown shooting investigation
Review: For disappointed 'Civ' fans, 'Anno 117' will scratch that strategy itch
Explainer-What is so special about TikTok's algorithm?
Robotics pioneer says the field has lost its way
Google warns staff with US visas against international travel due to embassy delays, Business Insider says
Sleep cots and graham crackers at Elon Musk’s child care program
Three tips to give your kids the best holiday present you can get – a healthier relationship with screens

Others Also Read