Digital labour platforms have opened new income opportunities for many Cambodians, but workers in the fast-growing ride-hailing and delivery sectors face long working hours, income uncertainty and gaps in social protection, according to a new study by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The report, titled Diagnostic review of working conditions and social security coverage of digital platform workers in Cambodia, was based on surveys and interviews with platform workers in Phnom Penh as well as stakeholders including government, platform operators and representatives of trade unions and associations of platform workers.
The study examined working conditions among digital ride-hailing drivers including tuk-tuk drivers, who transport passengers using three-wheeled motorized vehicles, taxi operators as well as delivery drivers.
It found a sector characterized by opportunity and growth, but also by significant challenges related to job security, social protection and representation.
Workers reported spending nearly all week on the job. On average, platform workers worked 6.7 or 6.8 days per week and 11 to 12 hours per day. Those figures include unpaid idle time spent connected while waiting for customers or delivery requests.
The findings show that the digital platform workforce is largely made up of young men, with delivery riders significantly younger than ride-hailing drivers. Most workers rely on a single platform for income, although ride-hailing drivers are more likely to use multiple platforms in an effort to reduce fluctuations in earnings.
Earnings varied across different types of platform work. Taxi drivers reported the highest gross monthly earnings, averaging USD$581 but retained the least due to high operational costs. Food delivery riders earned less gross monthly earnings, averaging USD$501, but retained more of their earnings after operational expenses. Tuk-tuk drivers reported average gross monthly earnings of USD$477.
About half of surveyed platform workers reported having some form of social security coverage, most commonly voluntary healthcare benefits through Cambodia's National Social Security Fund.
The report also found that automated management systems play a major role in shaping digital platform workers' working conditions. Most respondents said customer ratings significantly affect both their earnings and task allocation. Nearly half reported facing penalties, including reduced job allocation or account suspension, for refusing or cancelling orders.
While most workers can file complaints through platform apps, concerns were also expressed relating to the level of support received following serious incidents, including workplace accidents.
While almost all workers reported receiving training on safety, use of digital applications and customer service, work-related injuries remained common. Delivery riders faced the highest level of risk, with one-third reporting having been injured while working.
Despite these challenges, Cambodia's regulatory environment has helped digital platforms expand rapidly, creating new earning opportunities for workers. Many respondents considered digital platform work as necessary in the absence of alternative employment options and attractive in terms of flexible working times.
"Digital labour platforms are creating important income-generating opportunities for many Cambodians and can contribute to economic growth and innovation," said Xiaoyan Qian, Country Director of the ILO Office for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic.
"At the same time, the findings highlight the need to strengthen protections for platform workers. A clearer legal framework can also help provide greater certainty for workers and businesses alike while supporting the sustainable development of Cambodia's digital platform economy."
