Ensuring social security and compulsory social insurance for informal workers: The case of ride-hailing platform drivers

The rapid expansion of ride-hailing platforms in Vietnam has created a large workforce while simultaneously giving rise to significant social security challenges. This study examines the contradiction between actual platform governance practices, such as unilateral fare setting, high commission rates, and the transfer of risks to drivers, and the formal designation of drivers as “partners.” Drawing on the theories of algorithmic management and transaction cost economics, the study argues that the “partner” designation functions as a contractual mechanism that enables platform companies to avoid compulsory social insurance obligations. Based on the realities of Vietnam and relevant international experience, the study proposes a legal framework for derivative employment relationships and a flexible social insurance contribution model for non-standard workers.