Policy Responses to New Forms of Work
This report provides a snapshot of the policy actions being taken by OECD, EU and
G20 countries in response to growing diversity in forms of employment, with the aim
of encouraging peer learning where countries are facing similar issues. It shows that
many countries are reflecting on whether existing policies and institutions are capable
of addressing effectively the current (and future) challenges of a rapidly changing
world of work. In recent years, many countries have seen the emergence of, and/or
growth in, particular labour contract types that diverge from the standard employment
relationship (i.e. full-time dependent employment of indefinite duration). These include
temporary and casual contracts, as well as own-account work and platform work. Several
countries have also seen growth in false self-employment, where employers seek to
evade tax and regulatory dues and obligations. These changes are driving policy makers
worldwide to review how policies in different areas – labour market, skills development,
social protection – can best respond. How can policymakers balance the flexibility
offered by a diversity of employment contracts, on the one hand, with protection for
workers and businesses, on the other?
Published on March 21, 2019