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The rapid in app-based work platforms has transformed labour markets across the world. Millions of people now earn income through companies such as Uber, Deliveroo and TaskRabbit, which classify their workers as independent contractors rather than employees. Proponents argue that this model offers workers genuine and flexibility. Workers can choose their own hours and work as much or as little as they wish. Critics, however, contend that this classification is used to workers by denying them basic employment such as sick pay, holiday pay and pension contributions. Without these protections, gig workers remain financially and unable to plan for the future. Governments around the world are now attempting to these platforms, though legislation has struggled to keep pace with technological change. Many argue that what is needed is greater from platforms about how pay is calculated and how workers are rated. The debate ultimately reflects broader questions about what constitutes work in the modern economy.
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