Current issues of legal regulation of online labor relations in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Abstract

Online labour relations are no longer viewed merely as a technological novelty; they have become a tangible legal issue. For Kazakhstan, this subject is especially relevant, since digitalisation is moving quickly while many labour rules still rely on the traditional employment model. Because of this, the distinction between online work and conventional labour deserves closer attention.

Remote work is primarily characterized by its independence from location. A worker may perform duties outside the office and even outside the employer’s country. This creates cross-border labour relations: which law applies, where taxes are paid, and who provides social protection. These are practical matters, not abstract theory.

Online employment is often closely tied to digital platforms. A platform may act not only as an intermediary but also as a management mechanism. Orders are distributed, ratings are assigned, and productivity is measured through algorithms. There is a sense of freedom, yet it is not always complete.

The purpose of this study is to analyse the current state of legal regulation of online labour relations in the Republic of Kazakhstan and to identify the main directions for its improvement. The study employs comparative legal, formal legal, and systemic methods, as well as qualitative analysis. The scientific and practical significance of the study lies in identifying directions for improving national legal mechanisms for regulating online labour relations.

The results of the study show that, although certain mechanisms for the legal regulation of online and platform-based labour relations have been established in Kazakhstan, issues concerning the legal status of platform workers, their social guarantees, and the responsibility of digital platforms require further improvement. In this regard, the improvement of national legislation should ensure a balance between the protection of workers’ labour rights and social guarantees and the preservation of flexibility in the digital economy.