The ‘Uberization’ of the labour market: some thoughts from an employment law perspective on the collaborative economy

an article by Stefan Nerinckx (Fieldfisher LLPBruxellesBelgien) published in ERA Forum Volume 17 Issue 2 (June 2016)

Abstract

New collaborative economy models are influencing existing businesses. The most visible examples of the collaborative/platform economy involve renting apartments, sharing cars (TNC) and the delivery of goods and services.

Surveys reveal significant economic potential within the collaborative economy but also a large degree of uncertainty regarding rights and obligations (liabilities, protection of customers, regulatory framework, tax and social security treatment of the income derived, employment status,…).

But the collaborative platform economy also increases competition, changes consumer behaviour and creates challenges. The subject is high on the political agenda of the EU’s Digital Single Market Strategy and an impressive number of court cases are being launched to clarify things.

This article focuses on the employment law structure of the collaborative economy/platforms from an EU perspective.

Useful list of references here

with grateful thanks to Mondaq blog for the link

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