Brazilian gig workers thrive on Uber and food-delivery platforms amid rising right-wing influence

Leonardo Queirod, once a coach, switched to Uber eight years ago and now spends about ten hours a day, six days a week, navigating Rio and its suburbs, attracted by the platform's hour-flexibility and lack of long-term commitment. Similarly, delivery couriers Roberio Firmino and Kauan de França rely on iFood and 99Food, gathering on Copacabana sidewalks to receive orders via their smartphones. Firmino notes that the apps offer end-of-year bonuses tied to meeting set targets, providing earnings comparable to a thirteenth-month salary for some.

These gig workers, many of whom left traditional restaurant jobs, appreciate the autonomy and supplemental income. Their expanding numbers are linked to the political rise of Brazil's far-right, which promotes deregulation that benefits platform-based labor markets.