"Thai delivery riders protest social security inclusion plan", 28 May 2026

More than 100 Thai delivery riders gathered outside the Ministry of Labour yesterday to oppose proposals to place platform workers under the social security system, citing concerns over reduced work flexibility and lower income.

The protest followed a meeting … between members of the Platform Workers Federation and Labour Minister Julapun Amornvivat regarding labour rights and protections for delivery riders and other platform workers.

The federation urged the ministry to classify platform workers as employees and treat digital platforms as employers, allowing workers to access social security benefits under Section 33.

The group called for healthcare benefits, workplace safety protections, and compensation coverage for illness and work-related accidents.

… Prior to the latest protest, some app-based riders joined the international Global Switch Off campaign … by temporarily stopping work to demand stronger labour protections and employment rights.

However, many riders later expressed disagreement with the proposed social security approach. More than 100 riders, led by members of the Moving Fast Gang Help Each Other group, gathered outside the Labour Ministry before representatives met ministry officials…

Montita said delivery riders worked with flexible schedules similar to freelancers. Some riders extended working hours to increase income, while others adjusted schedules around personal circumstances.

According to Montita, riders feared that entering the social security system could lead to stricter controls over their working hours…