Are Platform Work Challenges Repurposing Trade Unions as we Know them? The Case of Italy

Abstract

This paper examines the evolving role of trade unions in platform work, addressing transparency and accountability issues related to artificial intelligence and algorithms. It highlights the unexpected focus on “territoriality” over “virtuality” in platform unionism and the challenge of decoding the operations of digital platforms. The opacity of algorithms complicates transparency, making it essential for unions to act as regulatory intermediaries that address legislative gaps and protect workers' interests. Beyond utilising existing legal frameworks like Article 28 of the Workers’ Statute, unions are adopting innovative approaches to educate workers, audit algorithms, and promote fair treatment in the digital era

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