Minister Schumann Advocates Swift Implementation of Protections Against Precarious Employment

In light of recent mass layoffs at Lieferando, Austria's Minister of Labor and Social Affairs has emphasized the urgent need to address issues surrounding platform work and false self-employment. During a meeting with the President of the Austrian Trade Union Confederation, the Minister highlighted the importance of establishing a legal framework to safeguard workers' rights.

Employees affected by the layoffs, who previously enjoyed protections under collective agreements, risk losing these benefits if they are reclassified as freelance service providers or independent contractors. Such a shift would strip them of essential rights, including minimum wage, sick leave, vacation entitlements, and job security.

In 2024, the European Union adopted a directive aimed at tackling these challenges, with a key feature being the reversal of the burden of proof. Under this new directive, it will no longer be the responsibility of workers to demonstrate their employment status; instead, platform operators must validate the independence of their workers.

The EU has granted member states until the end of 2026 to implement this directive; however, the Minister has stressed the necessity for expedited action. She reaffirmed that combating false self-employment and precarious working conditions is a vital component of the current government's labor agenda. The Minister pledged her commitment to swiftly translating the EU directive into national law.

The discussion with the union leader underscored the value of collaboration in enhancing workers' rights. The Minister concluded by stating that the prompt and effective implementation of protections against precarious employment is essential to ensure fair working conditions for all employees.