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‘What damage could a small breeze do to a fence?’ The lack of collective action on ride-hailing platforms in Berlin and Tallinn

Author

Listed:
  • Stefania Animento

    (Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany)

  • Kairit Kall

    (Tallinn University, Estonia)

  • Valentin Niebler

    (Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany)

  • Marge Unt

    (Tallinn University, Estonia)

  • Triin Roosalu

    (Tallinn University, Estonia)

  • Liis Ojamäe

    (Tallinn University and Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia)

Abstract

The proliferation of ride-hailing platforms in the last decade has been challenged by workers’ mobilization around the world. In order to complement the existing research on successful organizing, in this article the authors investigate the lack of collective resistance in two cases. By comparing the ride-hailing industry in Berlin (Germany) and Tallinn (Estonia), the authors explain the absence of collective mobilization in these different contexts. While ride-hailing in Berlin is more regulated than in Tallinn, drivers in both cities are structurally located in the weakest position within labour relations. Their isolation presents common features found in the business model and the work process, but also within wider societal structures and ideological landscape.

Suggested Citation

  • Stefania Animento & Kairit Kall & Valentin Niebler & Marge Unt & Triin Roosalu & Liis Ojamäe, 2025. "‘What damage could a small breeze do to a fence?’ The lack of collective action on ride-hailing platforms in Berlin and Tallinn," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 46(2), pages 448-468, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:46:y:2025:i:2:p:448-468
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X241259529
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