The EU Commission has launched the first phase of the consultation of the European social partners on how to improve the working conditions of people working through digital work platforms. Platform work is developing rapidly in the EU in an increasing number of business sectors. It can offer more flexibility, job opportunities and additional income, even for people who might find it more difficult to enter the traditional labour market. However, some types of platform work are also associated with precarious working conditions, which are reflected in the lack of transparency and predictability of contractual agreements, health and safety issues and insufficient access to social protection. Further challenges related to platform work include its cross-border dimension and the issue of algorithmic management.
The coronavirus crisis has accelerated digital transformation and the expansion of platform business models in the domestic market. Some of these have played an important role in ensuring access to services in the middle of the blocks. At the same time, the health crisis has further highlighted the vulnerability of people working in certain sectors, both in terms of exposure to health and safety risks and limited access to social protection and benefits.
These developments and the cross-border nature of digital platforms have further highlighted the need for an EU initiative to improve the working conditions of people working in smart working.
The aim of this first phase of consultation of the social partners is to invite the views of the European social partners on the need and direction for possible EU action to improve working conditions online. The consultation will be open for at least six weeks.