The two themes in the Giggin’ Policy project are and ‘understanding the gig economy’ and ‘youth inclusion’.
The gig economy is an increasingly significant part of the labour market in which temporary positions are common and employers contract with independent workers for short-term engagements. These “freelancers” do not sign any stable contract of employment in return for being able to sell their work on a task-by-task base. But surprisingly little is known by policy-makers about the realities of ‘gig work’. We believe there is a growing need to reflect on how society deals with these labour market changes, particularly how to protect and better educate vulnerable young people, for whom gig work is becoming commonplace, and in some parts of the EU the norm.
By involving vulnerable youth in policy-making, not only can policy be improved but young people will be given an opportunity to take on leadership roles and develop competences, which will lead to more effective decision-making not just in their own lives but more widely in society in the future.
The EU Giggin’ Policy Project will gather the latest knowledge about the gig economy from across the EU and share it widely, focusing in particular on the risks and opportunities which the gig economy presents for young people preparing to enter the world of work.
Our Manifesto:
- We will foster environments where youngsters (including those facing adversity) are included in the design of future strategies for regions.
- We will validate the innovative method of ‘youngsters in the lead’ in the specific context of the gig economy.
- We will foster the education of youth (including those facing adversity) by connecting youth to leaders and decision makers from education and the world of work, creating a bridge between generations and socio-economic environments.
- We will offer role models to youth (including those facing adversity).
- We will support leaders of educational institutions, policy makers and decision makers from the world of work who are trying to promote socio-economic diversity in learning environments.
- We will raise awareness about the effects of the gig economy on young people.
- We will arm young people, especially those who are most vulnerable, against exploitation in the gig economy.
Click Here to visit the project website for more details.
This project has been funded with the support of the European Commission.
