Victoria Uber Drivers Win Union Certification

Over 500 Uber drivers in Victoria, British Columbia, have become the first ride-share drivers in Canada to gain union certification, joining UFCW 1518 after a decision by the B.C. Labour Relations Board. This follows recent changes to provincial labor laws that recognize app-based workers and provide protections such as minimum wage for engaged time. The unionization enables drivers to formally negotiate collective agreements addressing issues like trip rate transparency, health and safety, and account deactivation processes. Uber acknowledged the certification and plans to meet with the union, while emphasizing that drivers will continue to enjoy flexibility. Labor leaders have praised the move as a landmark for gig workers, and it comes amid a broader trend of labor organizing among app-based workers in Canada. Similar unionization efforts, such as Amazon warehouse workers in Quebec, signal growing momentum for worker rights in the digital economy.