In a recent session, the Argentine Senate approved a significant labor reform aimed at adjusting the rights and responsibilities of workers engaged in application-based jobs such as Uber and Rappi. This reform eliminates the traditional employment relationship, creating a new status for these workers as 'independent delivery agents,' who will now have the flexibility to negotiate their contracts. This shift reflects the government's effort to adapt labor laws to the evolving gig economy, which has seen a substantial rise in application-based services in recent years.

The approval followed a lengthy session that began on Wednesday afternoon and was marked by significant public mobilization, with large crowds gathering outside the Congress building to express both support and opposition to the proposed changes. The debate also saw tensions arise, resulting in several incidents during the protests. The reform, while praised by some for providing more freedom to workers in negotiating contracts, is also facing criticism from labor unions who argue that it undermines workers' rights and job security.

The bill has now passed its first legislative hurdle but must still be considered by the Chamber of Deputies. If enacted, these changes could have profound implications for the future of work in Argentina, particularly for those relying on gig platforms for their income. As the gig economy continues to expand, the government faces the challenge of balancing the need for flexible work arrangements with the protection of workers’ rights in this new economic landscape.