Why society must change the way it sees gig work

In the social system of Bangladesh, an unwritten question often lingers behind every decision — "What will people say?" This question influences our education, profession, marriage, clothing, and even the most basic decisions of life.

Gig work — the modern form of employment based on information technology — is no exception. At a time when the global job market is shrinking, the gig economy has emerged as a potential alternative for young people. In Bangladesh, where unemployment rates continue to rise, gig work has opened new doors of employment for youth with limited education and work experience.

Gig work generally refers to employment that is done on a freelance, contractual, or short-term project basis. It is usually organised through online platforms such as Uber, Pathao, InDrive, Upwork, Fiverr, Foodpanda, or Foodie. 

This type of work allows individuals the freedom to set their own working hours and earn without being subordinate to a specific company. Moreover, one can also choose gig work as a secondary source of income. However, the social acceptance of gig work continues to face various challenges. 

The social stigma

In Bangladesh, the social status of a job is determined not by its nature but by its appearance, income type, and permanence. Many educated young people feel uncomfortable disclosing to their families or society that they are involved in gig work. This is because gig work is still not regarded as a "real job." For example, we often perceive a bike rider or a food delivery person as someone who has not yet found a "good" job. 

But these jobs have already become an integral part of the urban economy, with many young people earning a steady income through them, supporting their families and financing their education. In Bangladesh, certain professions are traditionally considered respectable such as doctors, engineers, teachers, and government officials. Those outside these professions often feel as though they are losing an invisible competition. Within this mindset, gig work becomes a victim of social stigma.

Society must learn to treat this profession with due respect and never demean anyone engaged in such work. At the same time, government intervention is essential to elevate the social status of gig workers.

When someone says, "I'm a freelancer," many people respond by asking, "Well, but are you looking for a job?" This question reflects the perception that gig work is temporary, insecure, and low in quality. As a result, many young people conceal their actual occupation or present themselves under a more socially "respectable" identity.

Bangladeshi families often play a major role in an individual's personal decision-making. Parents typically expect their children to secure government jobs — positions that offer a steady salary, paid leave, and a pension. Gig work, on the other hand, provides none of these benefits and lacks job security.

As a result, when a young man or woman says, "I drive a school bus" or "I deliver food," families often become anxious. They think, "After studying so much, my child is doing this?" or "If someone asks about my child's profession, how can I say ride-sharing or food delivery?"

For women, the social reality is even more challenging. Their participation in ridesharing or delivery services remains limited. On one hand, women's mobility in society is still constrained by various barriers; on the other, many perceive a woman riding a bike or delivering food at night as crossing the boundaries of "decency" imposed by society. As a result, concerns about safety, social judgment, and family objections often discourage women from joining this sector.

Within these social structures, a gig worker may earn more on a daily basis, yet their social status remains far below that of a government official. This disparity creates a kind of psychological conflict among young people. Although many enjoy their work, they often experience a crisis of self-esteem — both personally and socially.

Behind the social stigma toward gig work lie the limitations of our education system, the entrenched social hierarchy of occupations, and a deeply rooted culture of dependency on job security.

Making gig work matter

However, times are changing. The urban-centric lifestyle, the expansion of digital technology, and the growing self-reliant mindset of the younger generation are gradually breaking down these barriers. Many are now redefining gig work as "startups" or "digital entrepreneurship." At the same time, gig work platforms are increasingly raising awareness among workers about training, safety practices, and professional conduct. It is helping the sector become more organised and socially recognised.

To make gig work socially dignified and sustainable in the long run, the role of the state, policymakers, and the general public is crucial. The first step is to change social perceptions. People must recognise that gig work is not an illegal or inferior form of employment, it is a legitimate and valuable means of earning a living.

Beyond income generation, gig work can also be seen as a form of social service. In times of urgency, platforms like Uber and Pathao help commuters reach their destinations quickly. Similarly, delivery platforms bring daily essentials to our doorsteps at minimal cost.

Therefore, society must learn to treat this profession with due respect and never demean anyone engaged in such work. At the same time, government intervention is essential to elevate the social status of gig workers. Specific measures — such as ensuring labor rights, providing health protection, offering training opportunities, and introducing certification systems — should be implemented.

Moreover, students should be introduced to the concept of gig work through textbooks and classroom discussions in educational institutions across the country. By recognising career diversity in this way, students can learn to view their chosen professions as sources of pride rather than shame.