Towards facilitating decent work for all in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: an exploration of transitionary schemes for workers in South Africa

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is transforming workplace dynamics and reshaping the employer and employee relationship. Organisations must harness advanced technologies while addressing risks, which calls for amendments to labour legislation to safeguard workers’ rights, preserve industrial relations, and stimulate innovation. In South Africa, these challenges are heightened by unemployment, inequality, and skills deficits among youth and marginalised groups. Furthermore, the transformation of advanced technology such as automation, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence (AI) displacestraditional jobs while creating new opportunities, underscoring the urgency of reskilling. However, vulnerable sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and agriculture are most affected, while platform-based work exposes gaps in workforce regulation. Despite existing labour laws - including the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997, Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, and Skills Development Act 97 of 1998, remain rooted in a pre-digital era and inadequately address non-traditional work. This study argues for reform by redefining ‘employee,’ modernising skills development, and extending protections to gig workers through bodies such as the CCMA. However, a human-centred, rights-based approach is essential to uphold dignity, equality, and social justice in the evolving world of work under the 4IR.