Bangkok: The government is making a concerted effort to extend the social security system to delivery riders, with a one-year deadline established to enhance welfare for platform workers. Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the government acknowledges the demands of the Platform Workers' Federation. It is aware of the challenges faced by food and parcel delivery riders, who encounter daily risks on the roads without legal protection and equal basic welfare benefits.
According to Thai News Agency, legal hurdles have resulted in many delivery riders being classified as independent contractors, excluding them from legal labor protections and preventing access to benefits related to work-related accidents or illnesses. In response, the Ministry of Labour has set up a special task force that includes representatives from the riders and the public, aimed at gathering authentic feedback from workers. This task force is tasked with swiftly investigating how different categories of platform workers can gain access to the social security system.
The government is prepared to amend the law to unlock social security rights for any groups unable to access the system. This initiative is part of the government's commitment to fast-track this policy, with a clear one-year timeframe set for achieving tangible results. The aim is to enhance the quality of life for these workers and support the sustainable growth of the country's digital economy.