The struggle for recognition of app deliverers in Brazil

Abstract

In this article, we analyze the struggle for recognition on the part of plataform deliverers in Brazil. Specifically, we investigate the aggression, humiliation, discrimination, and harassment of all kinds perpetrated by the various actors they deal with in their daily work, especially police officers, customers, and restaurant managers. Based on YouTube videos, we conclude that, unlike what happens in and distributive issues – such as income and working conditions – couriers react when moral and identity issues are at stake. Despite the high competition for deliveries, they proved capable of of exercising great solidarity and protection to their peers at critical moments, such as an accident, a mechanical failure, lack of gasoline, and, above all, in the face of a public scene of non-recognition.