Background on the Reform and Its Key Players
180 days after the promulgation of the reform to regulate digital platform-based work, new legislation will come into effect on the upcoming Monday. This will pave the way for the launch of a pilot program on July 1st, benefiting more than 650,000 workers with flexible jobs that now include social security.
The reform, championed by Mexico City’s President Claudia Sheinbaum, mandates a pilot program to assess the suitability of proposed business models and social security schemes.
Key Companies Involved
Major players such as Uber, Didi, and Rapi have been actively participating in over 30 meetings. As per the new regulations, their contracts must be registered with the Federal Center for Conciliation and Labor Registry. A platform named “Siva-Contratos” has been set up to facilitate this process, ensuring companies comply with the reform while safeguarding workers’ rights without disrupting operations.
Challenges and Responses
Despite progress with company and worker involvement, some delivery personnel have struggled to obtain clear information from digital platforms.
Sergio Guerrero, General Secretary of the National Union for App-Based Workers, stated, “Let’s not let misinformation hinder the advancement of our labor rights.” He also mentioned ongoing informational campaigns, including Uber interviews that have been used to spread misinformation.
Addressing Misinformation
Guerrero highlighted that three major digital platform companies in Mexico have simultaneously released an alarmist statement to create fear and uncertainty among delivery workers and drivers.
He explained that these movements, though presented as worker representation, have been supported and instrumentalized by the companies themselves to oppose the digital platform work reform implementation.
Key Actions and Benefits
- New Legislation: Entering into effect on the upcoming Monday, this reform will regulate digital platform-based work and establish a pilot program for over 650,000 workers.
- Contract Registration: Companies like Uber, Didi, and Rapi must register their contracts with the Federal Center for Conciliation and Labor Registry using the “Siva-Contratos” platform.
- Social Security Inclusion: Workers will now have access to social security, maintaining the flexibility of their jobs.
- Information Campaigns: Efforts are underway to counter misinformation spread by digital platform companies and ensure workers receive accurate information.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this reform? The reform aims to regulate digital platform-based work and ensure workers receive social security while maintaining job flexibility.
- Which companies are affected by this reform? Major digital platform companies operating in Mexico, such as Uber, Didi, and Rapi, are impacted by this reform.
- How will companies comply with the new regulations? Companies must register their contracts using the “Siva-Contratos” platform.
- What challenges have arisen during the implementation process? Some workers have faced difficulties obtaining clear information from digital platforms, leading to misinformation campaigns.
