Profesionales como freelancers de plataforma: entre la flexibilidad y la precariedad. Una reflexión desde y para América Latina

Abstract

A comienzos de 2020, Miguel Palacio Barrientos, un diseñador colombiano, publicó el libro titulado Ser freelance sin morir en el intento, con el cual brinda consejos prácticos para quienes deciden o terminan por otras razones trabajando como profesionales freelance. La carátula del libro resume en imágenes los retos y beneficios asociados con el trabajo freelance: no son ilustraciones de profesionales en oficinas y con trajes elegantes, por el contrario, son ilustraciones de hombres y mujeres corrientes paseando un coche de bebé o una mascota, conversando y vestidos con ropa informal.

In this conceptual chapter I introduce platform professional freelancers as an occupational group that is different from other previously defined groups, as well as an increasingly relevant socioeconomic phenomenon, yet a relatively understudied one in the Latin American region. I also describe the historical forces that explain the emergence and growth of this occupational group and talk about both the flexibility and precarity discourses surrounding this form of labor. These discussions support my argument in favor of creating a distinct conceptual category for this group of workers, given their unique characteristics. Lastly, I present some ideas about potential avenues for counteracting the pressures towards precarization of platform professional freelance work, considering both international discussion on this topic, as well as alternative routes closer to the Latin American context. By covering these topics, I seek to sensitize the Latin American academic community about the growing importance of platform professional freelance work, and I also hope to motivate some members of this community to face precarization of this form of labor in a way that is consistent with our role and place in the world.