by Walther Ploos van Amstel
Platform work has become deeply embedded in everyday life in Germany. Whether it’s ordering groceries via Flink, hailing a ride with Uber, or hiring a cleaner through Helpling, millions rely on digital platforms for convenience. Yet, behind this convenience lies a growing concern: the workers powering these services often lack basic labour protections. The Fairwork …
Crowd-shipping delivery drivers via online platforms are becoming increasingly common in last-mile delivery sector. Unlike zero-hour contract workers, these drivers are classified as independent contractors or freelancers, allowing providers to bypass employment legislation regarding zero-hour contracts. Platform work Last-mile providers engaging in these practices use their branded apps to onboard drivers as independent contractors, who …
Some policymakers and unions have challenged the “gig economy” model of engaging independent workers and call for a reclassification of independent platform workers as employees. This policy shift would imply a move from a flexible work model, where couriers decide when and where to work, towards an inflexible work model, where the platforms or other …