ILO Discusses AI Gains, Gig Worker Treaty

The International Labour Organization (ILO), a United Nations labor agency, is holding its annual International Labour Conference in Geneva from June 1 to 12. The primary focus is on ensuring that the productivity gains from artificial intelligence (AI) are distributed fairly to workers through better wages, stronger labor protections, and more inclusive growth. Gilbert Houngbo, the head of the International Labour Organization, emphasized that the future of work will be shaped by policies and social dialogue, not just technology. The International Labour Organization also aims to finalize negotiations on a new international treaty for workers on digital platforms, addressing concerns raised by organizations like Human Rights Watch about the classification of these workers as independent contractors, which bypasses minimum wage and social security requirements. The European Union — European Central Bank's view that AI has had minor employment effects so far provides context to the ongoing debate.