food delivery people by application they protest this noon in the Chamber of Deputies against the Government’s project to regularize their work.
The protest began with a ride that started from General Archive of the Nation and arrival at the main entrance of San Lázaro; The protesters carry signs in their backpacks such as “Give me rights, don’t take them away”, “I drive for myself, not for my boss” or “regulate this for me”.
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Furthermore, while the drivers waited for the venue’s security personnel to allow them access, They dedicated several “mentions” to the politicians in turn, from the legislators to the President.
This Wednesday’s mobilization, which is added to those carried out in various parts of the country, is against the presidential proposal for reform of the Federal Labor Law to benefit the workers of various mobile service platforms such as Uber, Didi, Rappiamong others, because they would have benefits.
Sheinbaum Pardo’s initiative responds to the various protests that have been made by the “partners” of the applications to ask for independence, better working conditions and security, although today’s mobilization goes against what Sheinbaum Pardo proposed.
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Two weeks ago, the Mexican president signed the initiative that seeks to benefit, according to her, the 658 thousand linked workers To the platforms:
“The hiring of these platforms, most of which are transnational, generated a way of incorporating delivery drivers that has nothing to do with the General Labor Law, in a way of not recognizing the obligations that an employer has with workers, They are hired as partners, who are not partners, only to avoid incorporating workers into the rights that they should have, if they were partners they should also have profit sharing.”
The spokesperson for the delivery workers, Antonio Flores, commented that the labor reform for application workers must contemplate making social security affiliation an option.
🎥: @ArYferson pic.twitter.com/N4d0yI4pTu
— @diario24horas (@diario24horas) October 30, 2024
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Interview: Time.news Editor and Labor Rights Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to our special segment. Today, we have with us Dr. Laura Martinez, a prominent labor rights expert and advocate for gig economy workers. We’re here to discuss the recent protest by food delivery workers at the Chamber of Deputies. Dr. Martinez, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Laura Martinez: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. We saw a significant mobilization today from delivery riders protesting against the Government’s project to regularize their work. What are the main concerns these workers are voicing?
Dr. Martinez: The riders are predominantly demanding better rights and protections. Now, with the proposed reforms to the Federal Labor Law, there’s a fear that the measures might not adequately address their needs. The riders want a clear recognition of their status, independent worker rights, and improved working conditions. The signs they carried—such as “Give me rights, don’t take them away”—highlight their desire for acknowledgment and respect.
Editor: It sounds like this protest is part of a larger movement across the country. Can you tell us more about the context of these protests and the historical factors that have led to this moment?
Dr. Martinez: Absolutely. The gig economy has exploded, especially with platforms like Uber, Didi, and Rappi. While these platforms have provided flexibility for workers, they’ve also created an environment where many do not receive basic labor protections—like minimum wage, insurance, or benefits. The push for regulation arose from a collective outcry from the workers themselves, who are frustrated with their precarious working conditions. Each protest adds to a growing movement for fair labor standards.
Editor: The riders expressed their dissent not only through protests but also during the waiting time at the venue, targeting politicians and using social media platforms to amplify their voices. How do you see the impact of digital activism on labor movements today?
Dr. Martinez: The impact is monumental. Social media has given workers a platform to organize and share their experiences quickly. It has helped them reach wider audiences and draw attention to their plight. When they mobilize online and offline, they create a strong narrative about the gig economy’s unfair practices. This dual approach can pressure lawmakers to engage more seriously with their demands.
Editor: You mentioned the role of the proposed reforms, particularly those introduced by Sheinbaum Pardo. Can you explain why the reforms might be viewed as inadequate by the workers?
Dr. Martinez: The apprehension stems from the perceived disconnect between what the proposed reforms seek to implement and the actual needs of the workers. While the proposals aim to provide workers with some benefits, the reforms may still classify them as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification would continue to leave significant gaps in protections. The workers are advocating for full recognition as employees to access real benefits and collective bargaining rights.
Editor: It’s indeed a complex issue. What would you say is the key takeaway from today’s mobilization in the broader struggle for labor rights among gig workers?
Dr. Martinez: The key takeaway is that these workers are uniting and asserting their power. Their message is clear: they’re demanding dignity in their work, not just temporary fixes via reforms that don’t fully recognize their contributions. The movement is about paving the way for lasting change to protect the rights of all gig economy workers.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for your insights and analysis on this pivotal issue. It’s an ongoing struggle that many will be watching closely.
Dr. Martinez: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.
Editor: And to our viewers, stay tuned as we continue to cover this evolving story and the impact of gig economy protests across the nation.