Algorithmic management of work and the transformation of collective labour rights in the platform economy

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of the fundamental categories of Labour Law resulting from the incorporation of algorithmic management into the platform economy. Its objective is to analyse how artificial intelligence (AI), algorithmic management and data-driven technologies, including People Analytics, are reshaping employment relationships and transforming the protection of collective labour rights. A qualitative methodology was adopted, based on doctrinal legal analysis, documentary research and the comparative legal method, using Directive (EU) 2024/2831 as the principal analytical framework and contrasting it with recent legislative, doctrinal and jurisprudential developments across selected Ibero-American jurisdictions. The findings reveal that the apparent autonomy of platform workers often conceals sophisticated forms of algorithmic control that redefine managerial authority and transcend the traditional distinction between employees and independent contractors. The study also identifies the emergence of Unionism 4.0 and data activism as innovative forms of collective organisation capable of responding to the digital fragmentation of work. It concludes that algorithmic transparency, meaningful human oversight and the right to an explanation of automated decision-making constitute essential safeguards for the effective protection of collective labour rights, the preservation of balanced employment relationships and the maintenance of effective judicial oversight within increasingly digitalised labour markets.