In December 2023, three Uber Eats delivery drivers questioned the committee about whether registering as self-employed on the platform was in compliance with the law. They also inquired if their work should have been classified as that of an employee. The committee determined that the freedom of the delivery drivers was limited and ordered them to be reclassified as salaried workers.
On Friday, Uber announced that it will be appealing the decision made by the Commission for the Regulation of Employment Relationship (CAR) that requires three Uber Eats delivery drivers to be reclassified as salaried employees. The company stated that it regrets the outcome of the decision, which it believes is based on specific circumstances and does not apply to all couriers. Uber highlighted that thousands of independent couriers choose their app for the flexibility it provides in deciding when, where, and how much they work. A spokesperson confirmed that Uber will be appealing the decision.
The labor dispute between Uber and the three delivery drivers highlights ongoing discussions around worker classification in the gig economy. As the case moves to labor court, its outcome will have implications not only for Uber Eats couriers but also for larger gig economy and way workers are classified in this sector.
