Spain's 'Ley rider' remains controversial five years after implementation

Five years after the implementation of the ‘Ley rider’ (Royal Decree-Law 9/2021), stakeholders in Spain remain divided over its impact on the delivery sector. The law was designed to guarantee labor rights for digital platform delivery workers and eliminate the ‘false self-employed’ status.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Economy views the regulation as a pioneering success that promotes decent work, noting support from the European Union and the International Labour Organization. Union representatives, such as those from UGT, argue the law has set a global precedent despite resistance from companies.

Conversely, the organization Marcas de Restauración, representing 180 firms, argues that while the law provides a labor framework, it has reduced operational flexibility and increased costs for consumers. The organization has called for greater legal certainty within the sector.