Platform Capitalism, Delivery Work and Precariousness in Portugal

The rise of platform capitalism and the increasing number of workers involved in this context, especially delivery workers, demand an in-depth analysis of the precariousness inherent to this model of work in various countries. This presentation explores the main results of a qualitative research conducted in Portugal with the aim of understanding the motivations that lead individuals to this type of platform work, the working conditions they face, and how they subjectively experience their work. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 13 delivery platform workers in the metropolitan area of Lisbon. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis and MaxQda software. The research findings show that precariousness is present in multiple dimensions of interviewees’ lives. The lack of social protection and absence of benefits leave them in a condition of social vulnerability. Control is achieved in various ways, often assuming a subtle and manipulative nature through algorithmic monitoring and self-management, imposing a constant pressure to meet platform demands, long working hours and the intensification of work. Finally, the need to bear all the costs and risks of their work reduces income and intensifies exploitation. These dynamics have objective and subjective repercussions on workers’ lives and highlight the relevance of public policies aimed at guaranteeing protection and rights for workers in platform capitalism.