Portugal's food delivery couriers, using platforms like Uber Eats and Glovo, plan a historic strike on 22 March. They demand improved wages, better working conditions, and compensation for expenses, refusing to deliver for six hours to voice their needs.
On 22 March, Portugal's food delivery scene is set for a major shakeup. Couriers from apps like Uber Eats, Glovo, and Bolt have declared a six-hour strike, a move orchestrated via social media. They aim to voice their plea for better working conditions and fairer compensation without intending to cause chaos. It's a significant moment, as Hans Melo, a key organizer, labels it the "biggest strike ever" for the sector in Portugal.
The couriers' list of demands is clear: a minimum payment of €3 for any delivery, an additional €0.50 per kilometer for distances between 2 and 4.9 km, and €1 per kilometer beyond 5 km. They also seek individual payment for double orders and a halt to the burdensome triple orders. These conditions spotlight the struggle to earn a decent living, with many couriers working upwards of 12 hours daily.
Beyond pay, couriers face physical demands and out-of-pocket expenses for essential gear. From backpacks to protective clothing against the elements, everything comes at the worker's expense. This strike isn't just about pay; it's a call for dignity and respect in a gig economy that often overlooks the human element.
As the strike looms, the impact on Portugal's food delivery ecosystem remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the couriers' unified stand marks a pivotal moment in the gig economy's ongoing dialogue about workers' rights and fair compensation. The industry must now confront these challenges head-on, balancing efficiency with equity.
Will the strike change gig work in Portugal?
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