Indonesia adopts new ILO conventions to boost platform and fisheries worker protections

Indonesia is using recent International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions as a framework to strengthen labor standards in two key sectors. The labour minister highlighted that the ILO’s 2026 convention on decent work in the platform economy will serve as a reference for national regulations, aiming to improve protections for ride‑hailing drivers, couriers and other digital‑platform workers while supporting innovation and investment. He said, "Transformasi digital tidak boleh mengurangi prinsip‑prinsip kerja layak yang menjadi fondasi ketenagakerjaan global."

In the fisheries sector, Indonesia ratified ILO Convention C‑188 on work in fish capture on 1 May 2026, with full implementation slated for 2027. Industry leaders stress a phased approach to avoid operational disruptions, noting the need for ship modifications, safety upgrades and better recruitment practices. As Saut P Hutagalung of the Indonesian Tuna Association warned, "Namun, implementasi matang perlu dipersiapkan agar tidak menimbulkan gangguan operasional industri perikanan Indonesia." The two moves signal a broader push to align Indonesia’s labour laws with international standards across emerging and traditional industries.