Czech government proposes new platform work legislation

The Czech government, led by Labor Minister Aleš Juchelka, has proposed new legislation regarding platform work to clarify the distinction between employment relationships and independent contracting (OSVČ). The proposal aims to provide greater legal certainty for digital platforms, such as food delivery and taxi services, by refining the definition of dependent work.

The proposal has met with significant opposition. The SPD party and the Czech-Moravian Confederation of Trade Unions (ČMKOS) argue that the changes could effectively legalize the ‘švarcsystém’ (disguised employment), allowing companies to mask employer control and leave workers economically dependent without employee protections.

In contrast, the Czech Chamber of Commerce supports the measure, stating that it seeks to clarify existing ambiguities rather than change the fundamental nature of the law. Experts suggest that while a more precise definition may offer predictability, it may not automatically prevent companies from structuring collaborations to avoid employment obligations, as the actual nature of the working relationship must still be assessed in practice.