Earlier this month Eurofound published this report, which explores potential scenarios for platform work – the matching of supply and demand for paid labour through an online platform – by 2030. It draws on Eurofound’s “Future scenarios of platform work” project and assesses the expected implications for the economy, labour market and society, if these potential futures were realised. On this basis, policy pointers show what could be done to facilitate desirable and avoid undesirable outcomes.
The key findings include:
- In economically challenging times, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, a low-barrier entry to employment forms like platform work can be beneficial for those most affected, such as the young or low-skilled. However, unfavourable side effects, like potentially getting stuck in a job with worse working conditions, social protection and career opportunities, must not be neglected.
- It is important to ensure that platform work acts as a stepping stone into standard employment for those who wish so, rather than resulting in labour market segmentation or crowding out of traditional jobs.
- A common finding across all scenarios is that the growth of platform work in rural areas could be fostered, through a combination of awareness raising of the population and workforce, and by incentivising platforms to offer their services there, including platforms with alternative governance structures (e.g. owned by the municipality).
- The establishment of such labour platforms can serve a double benefit of improving the working conditions of the affiliated workers and providing accessible and affordable services of public interest.
- With sound framework conditions, platform work can also be strategically used to foster an entrepreneurial spirit. Platform workers genuinely acting as self-employed can be supported in trying out or expanding their economic activity.
Eurodiaconia will continue its advocacy work in the area of Access to Employment for all people at European level, enabling a framework for the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and the negotiations around the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), together with its members and partner organisations. Our network will continue exchanging and promoting best practices, as for example during the upcoming online Network Meeting on Access to Employment. The invitation and draft agenda can be found on our website. Interested parties, please register as soon as possible.
For more information on Eurofound’s publication, please visit their website.