In the center of Florence there will be a shelter for riders

The new project by CGIL in collaboration with the City of Florence will be entirely dedicated to platform delivery workers called “Casa Rider”. After initiatives in the cities of Naples and Genoa, it is now Florence’s turn, which by the end of the year should see the creation of the first stop place for riders. “Casa Rider” will not only offer a rest area with the possibility of charging their electronic devices, but will also feature an orientation desk where riders—often migrants—can learn more about their labor rights, get help with legal issues related to their immigration status, and (where necessary) take lessons to learn the Italian language. As stated by Florentine CGIL, the importance of the project lies in creating «a space for gathering, socializing, and organizing to encourage horizontal dialogue among riders, for the assertion of needs and rights.» Projects aimed at improving riders' working conditions are not only a big step in safeguarding their health, but also highlight the lack of labor rights in the European Union for certain categories of workers, often coming from migrant backgrounds.

Thus far, the only challenge the project has faced is the lack of funds to renovate the premises. Provided free of charge by the City of Florence, the shelter requires various upgrades to comply with regulations. The current goal is to raise 30,000 euros, which as explained on the official crowdfunding campaign page, would be allocated to upgrading the electrical system and charging stations for bikes, installing a heating system, reviewing the plumbing, setting up a solidarity bike workshop, and furnishing suitable rest areas for the riders. The CGIL and its partners have emphasized the importance of having a place where foreign workers can «quickly connect with the service system to facilitate their integration and understanding of the city and the opportunities offered».

The first project aimed at protecting riders started in Naples in 2021, and it later inspired the cities of La Spezia, Genoa, Livorno, Bologna, and now Florence. The issues surrounding riders' rights not only concern working hours and conditions but also legal matters related to this category of workers. In Italy, there are around 700,000 active riders, but they are not considered employees of the major delivery companies, meaning that this category cannot access vacation days, sick leave, or social contributions. However, with the rise of this workforce, governments are paying increasing attention to this issue. Last April, the European Parliament decided to adopt the Platform Work Directive, which aims to ensure proper classification of platform workers' employment status and regulate the use of algorithms in the workplace. Once the Directive passes the European Council, states will have two years to incorporate its provisions into their national laws. As we await these important steps, it is hoped that rest areas for riders will soon be established in Rome and Milan, especially with the arrival of winter.