A FAIR FARE: GMB demands greater transparency in Uber and gig economy pay algorithms
The GMB Union has issued a strong call for greater transparency in the algorithms that determine pay for workers in the gig economy. Representing members from major platforms such as ride-hail giants Uber and delivery firms Deliveroo and Uber Eats, the union is pushing for clarity to ensure fair negotiations on pay and working conditions.
Eamon O’Hearn, GMB’s National Officer, has highlighted the issue as central to addressing inequality and rising living costs. O’Hearn emphasised that understanding how and when workers are paid is critical for the union to advocate effectively on their behalf.
The rise of algorithmic management has transformed how gig-economy workers are paid and treated. Platforms use complex systems to set rates, allocate work, and even suspend accounts. Workers, however, are often left in the dark about how these systems operate, making it difficult to challenge decisions that can directly impact their livelihoods.
Campaigners argue this lack of transparency entrenches unfair practices, with algorithms acting as unaccountable “black boxes”. Groups like Privacy International, the Trade Union Congress, and Amnesty International have joined the call for reform, urging platforms to prioritise workers’ rights and dignity.
Among the changes proposed is the introduction of a public register detailing the algorithms in use. This would help address the information gap between workers and companies. Other recommendations include providing clear explanations of algorithmic decisions and enabling workers and representatives to test these systems to identify potential flaws or biases.
O'Hearn said: "Algorithmic transparency is a massive issue across the entire platform economy.
"How much members are paid is a crucial building block of negotiation between workers and bosses.
"GMB needs to know how and when members are paid if we're going to be effective in raising their earnings and addressing inequality.
"Our members want greater transparency in how their earnings are calculated, particularly in terms of ‘dynamic pricing’, as our members seek to keep pace with the rise in cost of living."
