Ensuring Equity in Digital Labor Market: The Ministry of Manpower's Role in Expanding Social Protection for Gig Workers in Indonesia

Abstract

The rapid growth of the gig economy in Indonesia has created extensive work flexibility, particularly through digital platforms such as ride-hailing, courier services, and freelance jobs. However, behind this flexibility lies serious challenges, including income insecurity, the absence of formal labor protections, and limited access to social security programs. These conditions raise critical questions regarding the state's role, particularly the Ministry of Manpower, in ensuring equity and social protection for gig workers. This study aims to analyze the Ministry of Manpower's contribution in expanding social protection coverage and addressing policy gaps. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through analysis of policy documents, regulatory reviews, and interviews with gig workers. The interviewees include diverse gig workers from various sectors and representatives involved in policy implementation. The findings indicate that although initiatives exist to integrate gig workers into social security programs such as BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and BPJS Kesehatan, implementation remains limited. Constraining factors include the voluntary nature of enrollment, weak enforcement of regulations toward platform companies, and workers' low awareness of their rights to social protection. From a social justice perspective, the inability of the system to fully protect gig workers risks widening economic and social inequalities in the digital era. This study highlights the need for policy innovations, including mandatory contributions from digital platforms, subsidy schemes for low-income workers, and strengthened social protection literacy. Strengthening the Ministry of Manpower's role is essential to guarantee that Indonesia's digital labor market evolves inclusively, equitably, and sustainably.