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Paper short abstract

Algorithmic management is reshaping labour relations in the Global South by shifting power from workers to digital systems. This paper examines its effects on labour regulation, worker agency and job quality.

Paper long abstract

Many employers now use digital systems and artificial intelligence to manage workers. These systems assign tasks, track performance, decide pay and sometimes discipline or remove workers. They are often described as neutral or efficient. However, this paper argues that they change who has power at work and how labour is governed, especially in the Global South. The paper examines how algorithmic management affects labour regulation, worker voice, and job quality in developing economies. It shows that when management decisions are built into digital systems, workers find it harder to question decisions, organize collectively or seek protection under labour laws. This is a serious problem in countries where labour laws are already weakly enforced and where many workers are in informal or insecure jobs. The paper argues that algorithmic management now acts like a labour market institution. It shapes working conditions and power relations even though it is not clearly regulated by law. These changes have important development effects, including greater job insecurity, unequal sharing of risks and weaker labour standards.Using examples from developing countries, the paper explores why existing labour laws struggle to deal with digital control at work. It then discusses how labour institutions and regulations could be redesigned to give workers more voice and protect job quality in an uncertain digital future. The paper contributes to development debates by placing labour and worker agency at the centre of discussions about technology and development.

Keywords:Algorithmic management; Labour regulation; Worker agency; Job quality; Global South;