The world of work is constantly evolving, and with the advent of new technologies and the so-called gig economy, new forms of precariousness have emerged, sometimes escalating into outright illicit conduct. If you find yourself in a situation where the imposed working conditions, often dictated by algorithms or digital platforms, have harmed your dignity or health, it is crucial to know that the law offers concrete protection tools. As a lawyer specializing in damages compensation in Milan, Avv. Marco Bianucci deeply understands the dynamics of modern labor exploitation, also known as digital exploitation, and the devastating consequences this can have on a worker's personal and professional life.
The phenomenon of labor exploitation, traditionally associated with the agricultural sector, has now taken on new technological forms. The Italian legislator, through Article 603-bis of the Penal Code, punishes illicit intermediation and labor exploitation, extending protection even to those who use, hire, or employ labor by subjecting them to exploitative conditions and taking advantage of their state of need. This principle also applies to modern digital platforms and delivery apps, where control is not exercised by a physical exploiter, but by an algorithm that determines work pace, routes, and compensation in an often inhumane manner. Beyond the criminal aspect, the civil liability of the employer or client is of central importance. Article 2087 of the Civil Code requires employers to adopt all necessary measures to protect the physical integrity and moral personality of their workers. When this rule is violated, causing physical damage (such as injuries due to unsustainable work pace) or psychological damage (stress, burnout, anxiety), the right to compensation arises.
Facing a lawsuit against large platforms or employers who exploit a position of power requires a meticulous and combative legal strategy. The approach of Avv. Marco Bianucci, a lawyer specializing in damages compensation in Milan, is based on a rigorous analysis of the factual circumstances. We do not limit ourselves to denouncing contractual irregularities but focus on quantifying the damage suffered by the individual. The firm's strategy involves a detailed reconstruction of how the work was performed, highlighting the de facto subordination and the violation of safety and health regulations. We collaborate with forensic doctors and labor specialists to ascertain the causal link between the exploitative conditions and the biological or existential damage suffered by the client. The goal is to obtain full compensation that covers not only economic damages, such as unpaid wages, but also, and above all, non-economic damages arising from the injury to psychophysical health and personal dignity.
Digital exploitation occurs when the intermediation and exploitation of labor take place through IT platforms or applications. In these cases, it is the algorithm that manages shifts, compensation, and penalties, imposing grueling work paces and denying the protections typical of subordinate employment, taking advantage of the worker's state of necessity.
Yes, the formal nature of the contract does not prevent legal action if, in practice, the employment relationship exhibits characteristics of subordination and exploitation. Labor judges look at the reality of the facts: if you are subject to constant directives, controls, and disciplinary power, you are entitled to the protections of subordinate employment and compensation for damages suffered due to illicit conditions.
In addition to wage and contribution differences, it is possible to claim compensation for biological damage, if stress or work pace has caused certifiable physical or psychological pathologies, and for existential damage, if the exploitation has severely compromised the worker's quality of life and personal relationships.
It is essential to gather all possible evidence: screenshots of conversations, GPS data, application logs, emails, assigned shifts, and colleague testimonies. Furthermore, it is crucial to promptly document any health problems, physical or psychological, through medical certificates that can attest to the link between the pathology and the work environment.
If you believe you are a victim of labor exploitation or digital exploitation and have suffered damage to your health or dignity, do not hesitate to seek protection. Avv. Marco Bianucci is available at his Milan office, located at Via Alberto da Giussano 26, to analyze your situation with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism. Contact us today to understand how we can act to obtain fair compensation.