Gig Workers in Argentina, India, South Africa and Spain: Policy Lessons for the Netherlands

Abstract

As is well known, digital gig work has experienced spectacular growth in recent years. However, systematic data collection is still at an early stage. This report is part of a broader study done by WageIndicator for the GAK Institute. The aim of this report is to compare the legal, fiscal and societal position of platform workers in the Netherlands to four other countries (Argentina, India, South Africa and Spain) and to present possible options in order to improve the current position of Dutch platform workers. First, we discuss relevant Dutch labour law and its applicability to platform workers. Second, we assess the current situation of the platform workers in the four other countries with a focus on the law. Third, we supplement the findings of the second chapter with new developments occurring mainly in Argentina and Spain as sources of inspiration. Last, we lay out some policy and legislation options for the Netherlands.