Social Insurance for Platform Economy Workers: Challenges, Policy Solutions, and International Experiences

The platform economy, while expanding new employment opportunities, has created significant challenges regarding the social insurance coverage of its workforce. This article focuses on ride-hailing platform drivers in Iran and selected countries, examining the barriers they face in accessing social protection and insurance. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach at the intersection of digital economy, social rights, and public policy, this qualitative comparative study employs thematic analysis of stakeholder interviews. Findings reveal that classifying platform workers as "self-employed" often excludes them from benefits such as unemployment insurance, healthcare, and retirement. In Iran, existing labor and social security laws (enacted in 1975 and 1990) are ill-suited to address the realities of platform-based employment. Comparative analysis of experiences in countries like Spain, Belgium, and South Korea highlights the critical role of legal reforms, redefining employment relationships, and mandatory platform contributions to improve insurance coverage. While Article 28(c) of Iran’s Seventh Development Plan marks an initial step toward recognizing platform workers' insurance rights, the lack of enforceable mechanisms undermines its effectiveness. The article proposes policy solutions including a hybrid insurance model (mandatory and voluntary), establishment of a joint social security fund, mandatory data transparency by platforms, and setting minimum wage standards. These measures, inspired by successful global practices, aim to strike a balance between the flexibility of platform-based work and social justice.