Combining Freedom and Flexibility with Security: Translating platform workers’ desires into law. The case of food delivery riders in the Netherlands

This article intends to show the added value of an interdisciplinary approach to researching the protection of on-location platform workers in producing a more fruitful understanding of the current socio-legal problems regarding the classification of these platform workers and their possible solutions. It explores how food delivery platform workers in Amsterdam experience their social rights, the conditions under which they would wish to change their situation, and the legal reforms needed to realise the changes. The empirical findings suggest that not only solo self-employed but also employed riders appreciate the ability to decide when and whether to accept an assignment. In addition, both types of food delivery riders express the desire to be protected under labour and social security law. The legal analysis highlights various obstacles to meeting the demands of the platform workers. It concludes that it is worthwhile rethinking the dichotomy of the employed and self-employed, both at the EU and national levels, and to offer platform workers (some) employment and social security protection.