Author(s)

Ruwen Pei ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK

Corresponding Author

Ruwen Pei

ABSTRACT

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the digital economy, platform employment has emerged as a transformative labor force, fundamentally altering the traditional paradigms of the employer-employee relationship. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the unique dynamics and intricate legal challenges associated with platform work, where workers often navigate precarious labor conditions without the robust safety nets typically afforded in traditional industries. It underscores the limitations of current labor regulations, particularly in addressing pressing concerns such as income volatility and disparate benefits. By drawing insights from diverse global case studies, this study emphasizes the compelling need for platform companies to shoulder their social welfare responsibilities, ensuring fair treatment and security for their workers. Moreover, it critically examines the profound influence of socio-cultural factors and educational awareness on the platform economy, shedding light on the complexities of this emerging labor landscape. Advocating for a harmonious equilibrium between flexibility and security, this paper calls for substantial legal reforms and innovative policy initiatives that can adapt to the evolving nature of work in the digital age. Finally, it anticipates forthcoming trends in the digital economy and platform labor relations, underscoring the significance of proactive adaptation to foster equitable and inclusive employment practices.

KEYWORDS

Platform employment, labor protections, social welfare, legal reforms, digital economy

CITE THIS PAPER

Ruwen Pei, Labor Rights Protection under Platform Economy: Legal Challenges and Innovative Explorations. Science of Law Journal (2023) Vol. 2: 131-136. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/DOI: 10.23977/law.2023.021219.

REFERENCES

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[3] Brishen Rogers, Employment Rights in the Platform Economy: Getting Back to Basics, Harvard Law & Policy Review, 2016.
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[6] Antonio Aloisi, 'With great power comes virtual freedom' A review of the first Italian case holding that (food-delivery) platform workers are not employees, SSRN Electronic Journal, 2018.
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