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Digital platform workers’ access to employee protection and social security

Platform workers in Nepal describe their access to protection and social security in these terms –

Benefits and protectionsprovided by platforms Social security mechanismsfrom the governments

EMPLOYEE PROTECTION

What benefits and protections are offered to workers by platforms?

Are employee protection benefits well advertised by platforms and easy to access for digital platform workers?

What challenges do digital platform workers face in accessing benefits?

While a lot of workers were not able to access platform provided benefits, those who did reported varied experiences. For instance, some described overcoming challenges engaging with the platform by contacting their supervisors.

“

The platform office can provide raincoats when it is raining. But it may be slightly difficult to get. They hesitate and do not want to give easily. We can call the supervisors to complain. We need to share proofs for any kind of issues. For example, when the bike breaks down or if there is an accident and we are injured, we need to take pictures for evidence while asking for support.”

- Abhay, food delivery worker,

Kathmandu, Nepal

GOVERNMENT SOCIAL SECURITY

How many digital platform workers are aware of government social security schemes and receive benefits?

With an expansive list of government social protection mechanisms across health, food security, livelihoods, and financial assistance, 89% of workers in Nepal reported being aware of one or more schemes and 85% of these workers were able to receive at least one type of benefit from the government. Commonly accessed schemes were Senior Citizen's Allowance (37%) and health insurance (35%) across sectors.