Fundamental issues of the concept of work in the context of digitalisation

Abstract

The concept of work is constantly changing. We can define it with different meanings from one period to another. This is no different today, when we are living in an era of digitalisation of work. Not only our private lives, but also a large part of our work processes are moving into the virtual space, but also the emergence of platforms. The current change in the concept of work also means that labour law is constantly lagging behind the changing concept of work. Or, more accurately, labour law never covers the full range of activities that fall within the concept of work.  The extent to which labour law covers the concept of work is also a legal-economic and socio-cultural question. It is along the lines of these influences that the legislator redefines the scope of work activities that are also regulated by law. We can see how an atypical employment relationship becomes a typical employment relationship. But we can also see how certain areas are being pushed into the grey zone. In our study, together with my co-authors, we want to show the digitalisation and the impact of the use of digital technology on work and labour law. We would also like to honour our common professor, our dear colleague and friend Tamás Prugberger on the occasion of his birthday.