Parliament debates bill that could let firms force gig workers into self-employment
Lawmakers are split over a proposal that would change the definition of employment to cover app-based work, which unions say could effectively legalise the so-called “shy-worker” system.
In the Czech Chamber of Deputies, the labour minister Aleš Juchelka defended a bill that seeks to extend employment protections to app-based workers, insisting it does not intend to legalise the informal “shy-worker” system. Trade unions, however, oppose the amendment, arguing it would effectively legalise that system by redefining dependent work. According to a PAQ Research survey, the revised definition could encompass a substantial portion of existing informal contracts.
Unions warn that moving workers from standard employment to self-employment would cut state tax receipts and increase social security costs. The debate highlights a broader clash over how gig-economy labour should be regulated and protected.
Why it matters
The outcome will shape protections and tax obligations for millions of gig-economy workers.
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