The memorandum of understanding recently signed between Uber and the Sindicato Nacional da Indústria e Energia (SINDEL) aims to establish a new work model for digital platform workers, providing protections tailored to their specific working conditions.
This agreement introduces a representation model adapted to the digital platform work environment, allowing all drivers and couriers to decide if and how they wish to be represented based on their activity levels, according to Uber.
Vítor Soares from ANM-TVDE expressed deep disappointment, stating, “It is deeply regrettable that a union like SINDEL/UGT, which should serve and protect digital platform workers, chooses to act as a commercial intermediary for Uber Portugal, promoting insurance and commissions instead of fighting for dignified working conditions and social justice.”
He further criticized that instead of supporting drivers and couriers, SINDEL seems to side with the platform by signing an agreement that does not guarantee rights, security, or stability.
Soares insisted on the organization’s repudiation of transforming union representation into a business, demanding unions fulfill their true role: to defend those who work, not those who exploit.
He also pointed out that claims circulating on social media and some media outlets about Uber drivers and couriers in Portugal receiving minimum wage post the alleged SINDEL agreement are a manipulation of the workers’ reality.
Vítor Soares has formally requested clarification from Uber Portugal and the union concerning this matter but has yet to receive any feedback.
ANM-TVDE clarified it was not involved in any dialogue or negotiation related to the alleged agreement, emphasizing that the mentioned union does not have a direct connection to digital platform activities, nor does it legitimately represent TVDE drivers and couriers.
The organization described it as a “media stunt” by Uber Portugal and Uber Eats, designed to divert attention from the increasing job insecurity on the platforms, presenting a supposed solution that does not meet the actual needs of workers.
Uber stated that the memorandum of understanding provides all participating drivers and couriers with insurance covering accidents, temporary or permanent disability, illness, parental leave, and death.
The memorandum also ensures that any driver or courier choosing representation by SINDEL will not earn less than the national minimum wage during service periods on the platform, regardless of consumer pricing.
Uber has created two membership levels: a low-cost option at 1.5 euros per month, ensuring representation in joint committees with SINDEL, and full membership at 0.75% of platform earnings (minimum 6.5 euros monthly), offering access to all union benefits including legal support and social benefits.
ANM-TVDE criticized Uber for the provision of work accident insurance, which covers disability, invalidity, or death during service, with medical expense reimbursement, arguing that such insurance is already mandatory for drivers and couriers but often inaccessible, with numerous reported cases of lack of support, even in severe or fatal accidents.
Additionally, the purported minimum wage would only apply if an accident occurs, not during regular work conditions, thus refuting the report, emphasized ANM-TVDE.
