SURVIVAL STRATEGIES IN THE DIGITAL LABOR MARKET: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON THE RESILIENCE OF GIG ECONOMY WORKERS IN BALI

Abstract

The rapid growth of the digital labor market has driven the emergence of the gig economy, which offers both opportunities and challenges for workers, especially in developing regions. This study aims to explore the survival strategies and resilience of gig workers in Bali, Indonesia, within the context of a digital platform-based economy. The study employs a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews of six gig workers from various digital platforms. Data Collection Techniques: 1) Semi-structured in-depth interviews (primary method): duration: 30-60 minutes per respondent using audio recordings (with permission), and field notes in Indonesian, 2) Participant observation: observing daily work activities. Record actual practices, environmental context, and social interactions, 3) Data triangulation by combining interviews, observation, and documents to enhance credibility. The findings indicate that gig work is generally carried out to supplement household income, but its unpredictable and fluctuating nature makes it difficult for workers to plan for the future or save money. Work schedule flexibility is seen as a major advantage because it allows workers to balance economic activities with cultural and family obligations, but on the other hand, it demands high self-discipline and exposes workers to the instability of demand. In addition, workers also face serious challenges in the form of fictitious orders, which result in the financial risk being entirely borne by the workers and exacerbate job insecurity. This study concludes that the resilience of gig workers in Bali is shaped not only by individual adaptive capacity but also by socio-cultural support, such as community networks that play a role in reducing economic vulnerability. However, structural challenges remain, particularly concerning the lack of protection from digital platforms and the absence of adequate government regulation. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive policies and platform accountability to create fairer working conditions and ensure economic security for gig workers within Indonesia's digital labor ecosystem.