Social Protection Revisited in the Light of Platform Work

This article examines how algorithm-driven employment practices in the platform economy challenge traditional social security systems, which are primarily designed for standard full-time employment contracts. The article explores the risk of undeclared platform work, the lack of legal certainty regarding employment status, and the challenges posed by the fragmented and unpredictable nature of platform work. We analyse the experiences of four European countries – France, Denmark, Spain and the United Kingdom – representing different welfare state models highlighting the need to adapt social security protection. The article underscores the need for transparent communication regarding employment status and benefits, adaptable social security systems that reflect the realities of platform work and a reconsideration of normative frameworks.