Hong Kong gig economy workers need protection too
- City dispute involving food delivery workers has highlighted why we have to update labour laws that are based on traditional patterns of employment
From booking a taxi to having your favourite food delivered to the door, many services are just a click away on the mobile phone nowadays. But as we enjoy the convenience that technological advances have given us, few would consider the working conditions of those who serve us.
The labour law made before the internet age is not doing justice to these workers either. Companies that have been profiting from the business boom should treat their workers fairly or the authorities will have to step in.
The problems with the so-called gig economy – where individuals are engaged on a freelance or per-job basis – have been highlighted in a recent dispute involving Foodpanda delivery workers. Among the complaints that led to a brief strike by some 200 workers were cuts in standard pay, service platform issues and punishments for late delivery or the taking of orders.
After two rounds of talks, a deal was struck to settle the dispute, although no details were given.
Whether the case will prompt similar strikes in the food delivery industry and others remains to be seen. But the wider issues concerning the rights of those in the gig economy remain.