Digital Transformations and the Decent Work Agenda

Digital transformations are reshaping work with new opportunities like remote work and online learning and challenges like governance of algorithmic systems, data privacy issues, and job insecurity due to automation, among others. Trade unions are vital in safeguarding workers' rights amid these changes. The three-day training with Singapore's NTUC addresses the impact of digitalization on workers' rights and strategies for responsible and human-centred technology use aligned with worker dignity. OBJECTIVES The course aimed to enhance trade union capacities in addressing the impact of digital transformation on the world of work. Participants were expected to be able to: a) analyze the current realities, challenges, and implications of digital transformations and algorithm-driven systems in the workplace, b) understand data extraction, inferences, and worker data rights; c) identify and apply trade union strategies for addressing regulatory gaps, promoting co-governance of algorithmic systems, and responsible technology use based on ILO guidance and policy briefs. CONTENT The course covered three key areas: a) Context analysis: Examines global, regional, and country-specific impacts of digital transformations on work, labour policies, and decent work. Utilizes ILO labour standards and studies for informed decision-making. b) Protecting workers' data rights and sustainable algorithms: Utilizes ILO labour conventions and guidance documents to empower trade unions in addressing data collection, algorithmic management, and technology use. Focuses on data extraction, workers' rights, negotiations, algorithm design, and alternative digital ethos. c) Trade union strategies: Facilitates practical strategies for ensuring inclusive and responsible technology use, safeguarding workers' rights, and promoting decent work.