Abstract

The ongoing process of digitalisation and globalisation is deeply transforming labour market and working relationships. Emerging forms of work (crowdwork) go far beyond the traditional model of employment relationship, posing numerous challenges in terms of social protection. The gig economy exacerbates common tendencies towards the informalisation of employment, and opens the gate to a new stage of precariousness. Are crowdworkers doomed to be an extremely vulnerable group of workers - a "cybetariat"? Does the algorithmic model of management redefine the notion of subordination? How should the current legal framework be reshaped in order to ensure a sustainable and equitable future of work? These are just a few intriguing, key questions that the platform economy raises.