A study on developing social protection for gig workers: The case of gig workers in the online platform for the food and groceries delivery service in Thailand

Abstract

This research examines social protection development for Gig workers in Thailand, focusing on food and goods delivery workers operating through online platforms. The study investigates current working conditions and social security arrangements, identifies barriers in accessing welfare systems, explores pathways for developing social protection through stakeholder engagement, and formulates policy recommendations for enhancing protection for platform-based delivery workers. The study employs a mixed methods approach combining quantitative research through questionnaire surveys of 409 riders analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative research involving documentary analysis, individual interviews, and group interviews with 25 participants using semi-structured protocols. Data analysis utilized thematic and content analysis methods. The findings reveal that riders face multiple challenges including unfair employment contracts, absence of income security, systemic management issues, negative social perceptions, high-risk operational environments, and inadequate welfare provisions. Most riders access protection through Section 39 of the Social Security Act and purchase voluntary insurance, particularly accident coverage, while relying on personal savings for retirement planning. Riders demand disability assistance from state guarantees and expect platform companies to reduce commission fees, guarantee minimum income or daily job quotas, and increase per-trip compensation. While statistical data show most riders desire employee status, qualitative analysis reveals complex preferences, with some preferring work flexibility and autonomy while favoring state intervention for fair working conditions. Thematic analysis identified four principal themes: work characteristics showing workers have schedule autonomy but face stringent platform requirements, job allocation uncertainty, and communication challenges; work-related problems including income uncertainty, safety risks, unclear legal status, inadequate social protection, and power imbalances; worker needs for transparency in compensation systems, appropriate social protection, clear legal status, improved communication, and policy participation; and government role gaps including regulatory oversight deficiencies, unclear legal status determination, taxation issues, and absent registration standards. The study proposes six policy recommendations: legal framework improvement through specialized legislation creating hybrid employment status and dedicated funds; comprehensive social security systems via legal reform and digital platform worker funds; occupational safety promotion establishing minimum safety standards and specialized accident insurance; skills development through training curricula and certification systems; participatory mechanisms supporting worker organization and tripartite committees; and database and research development for effective policy formulation. These recommendations aim to establish comprehensive, flexible, and sustainable social protection systems for Thailand's digital economy workers, addressing platform-based Gig workers' unique challenges while balancing flexibility needs with adequate protection.