Reconstructing Employment Law in the Gig Economy: A Legal Perspective onthe Employment Relationship of Gig Workers
Keywords:
gig economy employment law gig workers labor rights legal reformAbstract
The rapid expansion of the gig economy has transformed the traditional framework of labor relations, creating significant challenges in defining the employment status of gig workers. This article examines the employment relationship of gig workers from a legal perspective, focusing on the blurred boundaries between independent contractors and employees. Through doctrinal legal research and comparative analysis, the study explores how existing labor laws inadequately address the unique characteristics of gig work, such as algorithmic management, flexible work arrangements, and lack of social protection. The findings reveal that conventional definitions of employment fail to capture the hybrid nature of gig work, leading to gaps in legal protection and enforcement. To address these issues, the article proposes a reconstruction of employment law by adopting a more inclusive and adaptive legal framework that balances flexibility with fair labor standards. Such reform is essential to ensure that gig workers are not excluded from fundamental labor rights, including job security, collective bargaining, and access to social protection. Ultimately, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on labor law reform in the digital era by highlighting the urgent need to reimagine the employment relationship within the gig economy.
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