Brazil platform workers reach 2 million amid labor rights debate

Data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) shows that 2 million Brazilians are engaged in work through digital platforms as of 2025. This figure includes individuals using apps for their primary occupation or as a secondary activity. Passenger transport is the largest sector, accounting for 1.2 million workers (58.9%), followed by food and product delivery with 585,000 workers, and general professional services with 313,000.

The number of platform workers has grown significantly, increasing 36.8% since 2022 and 9.1% compared to 2024. Among those using apps as their primary job, transport and delivery remain the dominant categories.

Parallel to this growth, a legal debate is emerging regarding labor rights for these workers. International discussions, specifically regarding International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 193, are influencing the conversation in Brazil. The convention promotes decent work, including collective bargaining and protection against discrimination and accidents. While the Brazilian Supreme Federal Court has paused judgments involving companies like Uber and Rappi to consider these international standards, the convention does not automatically apply to Brazil; it requires approval by Congress, ratification by the President, and a presidential decree to become law.