Digital platforms such as Uber or food delivery services have spread the promise of freedom and flexibility, but for many gig workers this vision remains unattainable. Especially those who live entirely from contracts often struggle with precarious conditions and insecurity.
Research by geographer Karin Schwiter and her team at UZH shows that platforms sometimes exert massive control over working conditions, while at the same time refusing to accept responsibilities such as social insurance or sick days. In the EU, regulations have now been adopted that provide better protection for gig workers, while Switzerland still considers the phenomenon to be marginal.
A rethink is needed in order to create more binding working conditions in Switzerland and reduce social injustice. Karin Schwiter sees this as a central task and would like to use her research and analyses to initiate a well-founded discussion on the future of platform work.