BREAKING: Uber Drivers in British Columbia Make History with Canada’s First Ride-Share Union

Gig workers flip the script—British Columbia’s Uber drivers just unionized, marking a first for Canada’s ride-share economy.

No more algorithmic whims dictating pay. The move signals a seismic shift for precarious contractors demanding fair wages and benefits.

Wall Street’s probably sweating—nothing scares investors more than workers realizing their collective power. Next stop? Union-backed tokenized labor pools on-chain.

TLDRs;

• Uber drivers in Victoria have become the first in Canada to unionize
• The unionization follows new labor laws supporting platform workers in British Columbia
• Drivers are seeking transparency, safety protections, and fair deactivation processes
• Talks with Uber are expected to begin soon as drivers pursue a collective agreement

Uber drivers in Victoria, British Columbia have officially formed the first ride-share union in Canada, a milestone that could reshape labor relations in the gig economy.

The province’s Labour Relations Board recently certified the drivers under the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) 1518, allowing them to enter formal negotiations with Uber. This marks the first time that a group of Uber drivers anywhere in the world has achieved this level of union certification.

The MOVE was made possible by changes in British Columbia’s labor laws last year, which opened the door for app-based workers to unionize. UFCW 1518, the largest private-sector union in the province, already represents over 28,000 workers in various industries. Now, it will also advocate for ride-share drivers seeking better conditions, fair pay, and job security.

Push for Fairer Conditions

The organizing campaign focused on a set of Core issues faced by gig workers. Drivers cited a lack of transparency in Uber’s trip pricing and payout systems, limited health and safety protections, and little recourse in cases of account deactivation. These concerns, shared by ride-share drivers around the world, became central to the union’s platform in Victoria.

“Victoria’s Uber drivers have opened the door for app-based workers in British Columbia,” said UFCW Local 1518 President Patrick Johnson. “We’re committed to having their back as they negotiate an agreement that honors their historic achievement.”

UFCW Canada’s involvement extends beyond Victoria. Since its national agreement with Uber in 2022, the union has handled more than 4,000 driver complaints across the country, often securing reinstatements and settlements. The success in Victoria represents the culmination of years of groundwork and a signal that momentum may be shifting in favor of organized gig workers.

A Turning Point for App Workers

The certification has attracted attention beyond British Columbia. UFCW Canada National President Shawn Haggerty hailed the development as a defining moment for Canada’s labor movement.

He emphasized that workers in every sector, even those in the platform economy, can organize and win better conditions through collective action.

The victory also reflects broader legal and political changes. In recent years, the B.C. government has worked with unions to introduce minimum standards for app-based workers, including provisions for workplace injury compensation. These reforms laid the foundation for the Victoria union drive and may inspire similar efforts across the country.

Next Steps for Negotiations

Now that certification has been secured, Uber must meet with the union to negotiate a collective agreement. While the process may take time, Victoria’s drivers are aiming for a deal that enshrines basic rights, ensures consistent pay practices, and brings transparency to how the platform operates.

As the first of its kind in Canada, the agreement could serve as a model for ride-share workers nationwide. With support from UFCW and growing political interest in gig worker protections, other regions may soon follow Victoria’s lead. The outcome of these negotiations will likely determine whether unionization spreads further across the Canadian ride-share industry.