By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant policy announcement targeting one of the fastest-growing sectors of the labor market, presidential candidate Claudia Dobles of the Agenda Ciudadana coalition has proposed a new framework to integrate digital platform drivers into Costa Rica’s social security system. The plan aims to provide thousands of gig economy workers with access to healthcare and pensions by allowing them to make contributions to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) based on their actual income.
The proposal addresses a critical and long-standing gap in labor protections for workers who rely on apps for their livelihood. Dobles, a former First Lady, emphasized the urgent need for fair labor conditions, transparent regulations, and a robust safety net for a workforce that currently operates in a legislative gray area. The core of her initiative is to create a pathway for these independent contractors to formalize their status without jeopardizing their earnings.
To better understand the legal complexities and the future of the gig economy in Costa Rica, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert in labor and business law from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The central challenge of the gig economy lies in its clash with our traditional labor legislation. These platforms operate in a gray area, often classifying their workers as independent contractors to avoid social security obligations and other employee benefits. While this model offers unprecedented flexibility, it also leaves a growing segment of the workforce without fundamental protections. The key legal question our courts and lawmakers must resolve is whether this new form of work requires a complete regulatory overhaul or an adaptation of existing principles to recognize a subordinate relationship, even when it’s mediated by an algorithm.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas expertly pinpoints the fundamental conflict at the heart of this new economic reality. As he notes, the path forward for Costa Rica hinges on resolving this legislative ambiguity, a decision that will profoundly impact the balance between innovation and the essential protections of our workforce. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable perspective on this critical issue.
At the heart of her argument is the precarious situation faced by these workers, who lack basic protections in case of illness, accidents, or upon reaching retirement age. She outlined a vision where flexibility does not come at the cost of fundamental security.
Our goal is for those who work on different types of digital platforms to contribute to the CCSS, and to have access to health services and a pension, without it meaning they lose the income that supports their families. It is not possible for an accident to leave a person with no option for income, care, and protection for their family.
Claudia Dobles, Presidential Candidate for Agenda Ciudadana
Beyond standard CCSS contributions, Dobles also highlighted the need for a specialized accident insurance policy. This would be designed specifically for the unique risks associated with platform-based work, such as ride-hailing and delivery services, protecting individuals who are currently left entirely vulnerable in the event of an unforeseen incident on the job. This dual approach seeks to provide both long-term stability and immediate protection.
The proposal is substantiated by alarming data from a recent study conducted by the School of Economics at the National University (UNA). According to the research, more than 15,400 individuals work for digital platforms in the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) alone. This figure underscores the significant and growing economic footprint of the gig economy, making its regulation a pressing national issue.
The UNA study paints a stark picture of the working conditions within this sector. While a mere 2% of these workers maintain a standard 40-hour workweek, a staggering six out of every ten individuals (60%) reported working 60 hours or more per week. These long hours, often for variable and unpredictable pay, highlight the intense demands placed upon this segment of the workforce.
The most concerning findings, however, relate directly to the lack of social protections. The research reveals that 68% of delivery workers are not covered by any form of health insurance. Furthermore, an even larger majority—78% of these workers—do not contribute to any pension plan. This widespread lack of coverage places an immense burden on the individuals and their families, leaving them without recourse in cases of medical emergencies or the certainty of a secure retirement.
Dobles’ initiative directly confronts these statistics, positioning the welfare of gig economy workers as a key issue in the presidential race. The proposal aims to formally recognize their economic contribution while extending the social safety net that has long been a cornerstone of Costa Rican society. As the platform economy continues to expand, this plan sets the stage for a critical national debate on the future of labor in the digital age.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Agenda Ciudadana
About Agenda Ciudadana:
Agenda Ciudadana is a political coalition in Costa Rica formed to contest national elections. It brings together various political figures and ideologies with the goal of presenting a unified platform to address the country’s pressing economic and social challenges, focusing on citizen-centric policies and modernizing public administration.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social, commonly known as “La Caja,” is the autonomous public institution in charge of Costa Rica’s public health and social security system. It is a fundamental pillar of the nation’s social contract, providing universal healthcare, disability, maternity, and old-age pension benefits to a vast majority of the population.
For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Universidad Nacional (UNA):
The National University of Costa Rica is one of the country’s most prominent public universities. Established in 1973, it is recognized for its strong emphasis on humanistic studies, social sciences, and research. Its various schools and institutes, including the School of Economics, frequently conduct studies and provide data that inform public policy and national discourse.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to professional integrity and the highest standards of excellence. The firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies while serving a diverse clientele, blending a rich heritage with a forward-looking vision. Central to its mission is a deep-seated commitment to demystifying the law, thereby empowering the public and contributing to a more knowledgeable and just society.
