Gig Workers and Social Protection in Indonesia: Ideality, Reality, and HRM Implications

Abstract

The gig work sector has been rapidly growing and has transformed Indonesian labour markets, enabling millions of workers in ride-hailing, delivery, e-commerce services, and online freelancing. Although they contribute significantly to the national economy and provide flexibility, these workers often lack adequate legal labour rights and access to social security, raising urgent concerns around fairness, protection, and long-term work sustainability. While both the International Labour Organization’s decent work agenda and Indonesia’s labour laws emphasise the ideals of safe working conditions, fair pay, and social dialogue, the everyday reality for gig workers is shaped by ambiguous employment status, precarity, and the absence of effective protection schemes. This paper conducts a systematic literature review to identify key challenges, persistent gaps, and implications for Human Resource Management (HRM) in addressing the social protection of gig workers in Indonesia. Using a systematic literature review of current literature, the study analyses recurring themes including legal and regulatory ambiguities in worker classification, algorithmic management practices that intensify control and undermine autonomy, unstable incomes and extended working hours that compromise work–life balance, and the absence of effective mechanisms for worker representation and collective voice. By
applying an HRM perspective, the study underscores the importance of embedding gig work within broader debates on sustainable HRM, fair reward systems, and participatory approaches that recognise worker voice and dignity. The findings contribute to academic knowledge by bridging legal, sociological, and HRM literatures, while also offering practical policy insights to strengthen inclusive social protection frameworks and promote decent work in Indonesia’s gig economy.