Surviving the pitfalls of gig work

App-based rideshare and delivery work is exploding across southeast Asia and offers plenty of flexibility but has numerous downsides.

The gig economy is like a breath of fresh air for young people, women, and even those in retirement years looking to earn some income. A flexible job can add to the piggy bank or fill the time before a formal job kicks in.

COVID-19 pumped up this opportunity and made a big contribution to a nation’s economy.

The flexible working model, without being tied to a specific time, place, or special skills, also benefits businesses. They don’t need to supply office space, provide health benefits, job security, or other business support aspects.

The number of gig workers is skyrocketing in developing countries compared to developed ones. The World Bank notes a 130 percent surge in Sub-Saharan countries, while in North America, it’s only a 14 percent increase.

But there are issues.

The imbalance in bargaining power between gig workers and tech companies raises the spectre of economic exploitation.

Many gig jobs provide minimal to no safeguards for workers, unpredictable income and lacking well-defined career progression. Depending on regional labour laws, gig workers lack protection from unjust practices, abuse, or workplace injuries. Additionally, gig work poses difficulties in overseeing data security and privacy.

What does the gig economy look like in Asia? 360info has summoned the experts.