It has been a contradictory year at best for many. In some ways, the world has been at a complete standstill, and in others, it has had to go through an immense change to adapt to the situation of COVID-19. With many comparing it to the hit dystopian series Black Mirror, writer of the show Charlie Brooker acknowledges this in ‘it’s flattering on a professional level.’ Also sharing his concerns in ‘on another level, it’s completely terrifying,’ he simultaneously voices the sentiments of the rest of the world.

Not only has the virus perpetrated severe implications on physical health with total global cases amounting to 117 million, but it is also true to say that the result of the pandemic has taken a serious toll on the mental health of the public owing to lockdowns. That being said, for the UK, since vaccination has been rolling out and Boris’ roadmap out of lockdown has been announced, sentiments of optimism are slowly restoring, replacing those former feelings of claustrophobia that many will have experienced this past year.

With much hype over the government’s detailed plan, we slowly start to wave goodbye to the banana bread baking days and faulty internet connection ruining our comedic timing on online zoom quizzes. Instead, we look onto a hopeful picture of normality – let’s take a look at how to get there.

A Comprehensive Guide of What to Expect

Just two days ago, on the 8th of March, the first phase of lighter restrictions came into force. All schools and college students for the first time in months are now receiving in-person teaching, alongside the option to resume extra-curricular activities after school. Online teaching by no means was able to provide the same level of teaching as a face-to-face scenario, therefore the discourse surrounding this reflects the notion that education as the first step towards normality is imperative as it shows investment into the younger generation for the future.

Furthermore, by the 29th of March, the rule of six is expected to return. Leisure sports such as tennis and golf courses will be allowed to re-open, gently re-introducing socialization. Following this, and what perhaps marks a turning point in terms of the country’s economy will be the 17th of May. Here, the hospitality sector will be able to re-open indoors, the only remaining restrictions being clubs. Finally, on the 21st of June at the earliest, all restrictions will be stopped, and life can continue as normal.

What does this mean for the economy?

Clearly, at the hands of COVID, every country has suffered financially, and the economic ramifications are certainly not to be taken lightly. These consequences have indeed been inevitable, and predictions are optimistic with the U. K’s GDP estimated to regain its full pre-COVID amount by early 2022.

However, the economic road to recovery will undoubtedly be a difficult one to navigate. According to Reuters, U.K finance minister Rishi Sunak is facing the heaviest borrowing since World War Two, and our GDP fall is steeper than almost any other big economy. The government claims this is due to the importance that the public place on face-to-face consumerism, though this fails to address that handled appropriately, this sector should have been re-opened a long time ago.

Nonetheless, this will be an opportunity to analyze sectors which the UK heavily relies on to support its economy and decide if such proportions should accordingly be molded in the future. Furthermore, since the announcement, some UK businesses have gained a glimpse into how they may reap the benefits come the 21st of June. As per the presuppositions of my previous statement, shares in UK travel and hospitality have had a sharp surge in response to the roadmap, and will only continue to do so.

How badly the impacts of COVID-19 will affect the economy remain to be seen and setbacks should be expected, however, the definitive plan that has now been provided has encouragingly given a sense of stability in contrast to the uncertainty many have endured, thus boding well for a future restriction-free society.

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For Uber, a notion they have been consistent in arguing since their launch is that they are not a transport providing app, but rather a booking service that hires transport providers. Whilst this might sound like a small difference in a turn of phrase, the difference, in reality, is unquantifiably magnified. In doing so, Uber is exempt from paying a 20% VAT on fare alongside, up until late last month, avoiding obligations such as minimum wage and holiday pay.

In an official release that the company posted on their blog following the landmark judgment, they use an interview with a worker to argue that ‘at a time when we need more jobs, not fewer, we believe Uber and other platforms can be a bridge to a sustainable economic recovery.’

Here, in fewer words, Uber’s underlying message is clear that in a business model that champions flexibility, benefits denote further responsibility for both driver and company thus sacrificing the aforementioned USP. Whilst many understandably crave stability in an increasingly uncertain world, on the other hand, Uber markets on the age-old desires of freedom and independence. In a nutshell, their appeal is that if you so choose to, working for Uber can be a full-time job. However, should you decide against it nothing is stopping you, least of all set working hours?

Reasons behind the decision

On the surface Uber’s business model presents a workplace environment haven; flexible working hours and opportunities to pursue other careers name a few, however, the execution of it paints a slightly different picture. As recognized by the Supreme Court, Uber workers fell under the category of an employee in everything but their title. Here are some things that the courts took into consideration during deliberation that led them to their final verdict.

According to the BBC:

‘Uber set the fare which meant that they dictated how much drivers could earn’
‘Uber set the contract terms and drivers had no say in them’
‘Request for rides is constrained by Uber who can penalize drivers if they reject too many rides’
‘Uber monitors a driver’s service through the star rating and can terminate the relationship if after repeated warnings this does not improve.’

From this perspective, workers’ frustrations can be felt as many began their Uber career journey with expectations of independence and flexibility only to be met with restrictions. Instead of broadening opportunities, Uber’s business model has narrowed them for many in setting a precedent meaning that the only way to enhance your economic situation as a worker was to work longer hours, rather than to demonstrate professional skill.

It is also important to note that changes have been made in their approach over the course of these past 5 years, including removal of penalization should drivers reject rides and transparency over fare rates. Despite this, there is still room for change in improving the working conditions for gig workers in general. For example, due to the U. K’s legal system, those who brought forward the tribunal will most certainly feel the effects of being considered as employees rather than self-employed.

However, for the rest of the workers, Uber is under no obligation to enforce this verdict on the company as a whole, and instead, it is up to the workers to bring forward subsequent tribunals.

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The post A Step in the Right Direction – The Uber Case appeared first on Relawding.

Historically, in times of adversity (such as a global pandemic) citizens turn to a guiding figure, those who appear to be in a state of calm and collect when they feel in disarray. Unfortunately for many, this trust in leadership has proven to be blind, with some of the highest coronavirus death cases in countries such as the US reaching nearly 500,000.

Under Jacinda Ardern, her starkly different approach in leadership was initially coined as ‘the strictest measures in the world’ for which she would ‘make no apologies’, however, time has only confirmed the sentiment that hard work pays off – one only has to google music festivals NZ to see the haven of a lifestyle that her citizens now lead.

Jacinda Ardern

Jacinda Ardern has fast become one of the worlds biggest role models since her election in October 2017. Prime Minister, Mother and advocate of the motto ‘be strong, be kind;’ this not only epitomises her empathetic leadership style, but also reflects her childhood days which led to her entire belief system.

Raised as a Mormon in the city of Hamilton, she was met with the reality of poverty within these towns on a daily basis. Whilst experiencing a comfortable lifestyle herself, (her mum previously working at a service station and her dad a policeman,) her exposure to these injustices was enough for her to disagree with the notion that extreme poverty could exist in a world of millionaires and billionaires. By 17 she was a labour party supporter.

During her leadership thus far as Prime Minister, Covid-19 is by no means the only difficulty she has faced. In 2019, the Christchurch mosque attacks which left 51 people dead was a shocking tragedy that undeniably required great sensitivity. Her immediate reaction in her refusal to name the terrorists was moving in her statement that “you may have chosen us, but we utterly reject and condemn you.” However, what deserves real praise was her ensuing action to validate the beliefs that got her elected in the first place.

By changing the country’s gun laws, banning the sale of all semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles, this led to worldwide debate spotlighting the US particularly. If Ardern was able to change these laws within days of the attack, how many will it take for the US government to follow suit?

Covid-19 under Jacinda Ardern

According to the BBC, New Zealand’s key to success was their ‘early lockdown and aims of elimination.’ By mid-March Ms Arden had closed almost all borders to non-citizens or residents, and shortly after a nationwide lockdown was introduced which stayed in strict place for 5 weeks.

Despite only recording 102 cases at this point and no deaths, Ardern felt it was necessary to impose such regulations. Not only did her ambitions lie in getting life back to normal as quickly as possible but as she later stated in an interview, her ambition was equally matched by the fear that the health system simply wouldn’t be able to cope.

Whilst there were bumps along the way, with the resignation of the health minister when cases began to rise without explanation, New Zealand’s overall navigation of the situation has counted them amongst the most successful in the world, now having eliminated the virus bar those currently in quarantine.

Economic consequences

Although their response to the coronavirus was commended, it hasn’t come without consequences. New Zealand has gone into recession for the first time since the global financial crisis due to the measures that they imposed.

Taking a complete 180 turn from what Finance Minister Grant Robertson predicted for the economy in 2020, according to the conversation he has been forced to abandon a conservative net public debt target of 20% of GDP. Debt is now projected to rise to 53.6% by 2023, as the government borrows to invest in jobs and runs deficits until at least 2024.’

Whilst many other countries have taken a different attitude to the situation, trying to keep non-essential sectors open to somewhat maintain a healthy economy, this has undoubtedly been at the cost of people’s lives. Therefore, Ardern has publicly expressed her confidence that the initial sacrifice and hit to the economy will enable better recovery prospects.

This is a crucial point for Ardern due to a series of factors. Her glittering international reputation indeed is a testament to her successes, however, equally shows a somewhat distorted and worrying standard for leadership amongst the rest of the world. Jacinda Ardern has simply been getting it right, as should every other leader in the world and by extension, many New Zealanders, accustomed to such governments are sceptical of how she will handle the ensuing economy. It is important to note, that this also comes after their criticism of her lack of focus regarding child poverty, a prevalent issue in New Zealand.

Recovery in all aspects for individuals and hospitality sectors alike is no small feat and will certainly prove an uphill battle in the wake of coronavirus and the resulting restrictions, however, if a coronavirus free life is anything to go by, Jacinda Ardern’s approach must make us question the degree we hold our governments to.

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As the dust from the Brexit deal begins to settle, so has some of the ambiguity that clouded its decisions. Whilst the certainty from statistics released have reassured some, for students it has simply cemented their feelings towards the government. Students are tired of being overlooked and forced to face the consequences of a decision that they played no part in making.

Studying in the UK after Brexit

The UK has long since been a much-coveted place for students wanting to complete their higher education. With over 500,000 international students enrolling each year all over the country, this is simply a testament to the unparalleled standard of education that the UK offers. A name for being leaders in the field for research, globally recognised qualifications and a more personalised approach to teaching indeed positively separates its reputation from other leading countries such as the US. It allows us to participate in a world of increasing social mobility and equal opportunity. Or so was the case before Brexit marks the stance of the student.

For students, Brexit has brought their future into question regarding the overseas study, and opportunities to welcome international students into their lives. Upon confirmation of this, it is no surprise that students have maintained their protests. According to a recent article published by Forbes, a new analysis predicts that universities are set to lose an estimated £62.5 million per year in tuition fees as a result of Brexit. And the number of European Union students at U.K. universities is predicted to slump by more than half. By creating barriers that previously didn’t exist, Brexit has created a problematic environment for students and universities alike, with both facing unprecedented financial difficulties.

The Cost of Studying in the UK

Currently, for students studying on a 3-year course at a UK university, it will cost them £55,620. This figure when presented in black and white hardly seems accessible or fair, however, many suggest that in reality, it promotes a progressive approach. Only 30% of students end up paying their loan back in full, alongside a benchmark salary requirement before repayment even comes into play. The conservative narrative promotes this as a model structure, as it simultaneously allows for employees to receive a decent salary. Whilst in principle the benefits are clear to follow, problems have arisen upon its operation.

However, it is not necessarily the structuring of the system that students are angry about. The Conservative’s failure is not in the system that they promote but in their failure to address the legitimate concerns raised by those living by the laws of their government. For example, in terms of the Coronavirus, students are paying the full amount for a compromised experience, while many vice-chancellors are still earning a full salary. Analysis of 2018-2019 wages showed the Vice-Chancellor of Imperial College London received £554,000 as an annual wage. With 13 universities facing bankruptcy, and students having to find part-time jobs to fund housing that they aren’t even able to live in, it is understandable that students deem this as insensitive considering the current situation.

Accordingly, it has certainly been difficult to navigate the economic ramifications of Brexit, alongside the discontent and struggles at the hands of the Coronavirus. However, as we start a new year with both challenges being managed, it will be interesting to see how the future of education will change.

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Having only gone from strength to strength despite the pandemic, predicted figures echo their domination in the e-commerce world. Before the pandemic, Amazon represented around 4% of total US retail sales, by 2025 they are expected to make up 25%. This in itself has caused much controversy for the company, and personally for former CEO and founder of the company, Jeff Bezos. Most recently, the company was fined $61.7 million by the United States Federal Trade Commission for mistreating workers by withholding tips from customers. Whilst this is by no means the first of this calibre of disputes that Amazon have been involved in, it perhaps serves as an explanation for Bezos’ resignation on the 2nd of February.

The End of an Era or a simple Misdirection?

When headlines of Bezos’ resignation hit, shockwaves were sent throughout the world and consequently, all discussion surrounding the company homed in on the 30-year career Bezos had in leadership, the reasons behind his exit and what the next chapter of Amazon would entail under new CEO Andy Jassy. The ensuing narrative found this to be a tactical move, one to smooth over the issues of the company, unaddressed until a change is made.

Upon a little further research, it is apparent that the dramatics surrounding his resignation are a far cry from reality. Whilst his perfectly curated statement honed by legal and PR teams did much to invoke a sense of respect and nostalgia, he still holds the title of executive chairman – a position of importance that holds undeniable influence over a company. Amazon’s Chief Finance Officer Brian Olsavsky no less, has reiterated this in his statement that ‘Jeff is really not going anywhere, it’s more of a restructuring of who’s doing what.’

The Bigger Picture

In a clip that went viral earlier this year, Labour MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle marked his stance by saying that billionaires shouldn’t exist. Whilst this is a notion that may sound radical at first, it is important to put into perspective exactly what a billion pounds may look like* and how the route to getting there is impossible, if not at the expense of others.

Amazon and Jeff Bezos epitomise this. Illegal working hours, and the suppression of unionisation to allow for better working conditions name a few. Not only does Amazon enable these conditions to continue in exchange for a bigger paycheck, but they also stand in direct opposition to those who strive to make it better. According to the Times, managers at an Amazon warehouse in Delaware were exposed to falsely creating an anti-union story to warn employees off organising. To add fuel to the fire, several employees were also fired for advocating a union.

In summary, Amazon’s unethical approaches are simply a microcosm of the bigger picture, one that paints in injustice and discrimination. As the Independent stated, during the pandemic, the world’s one per cent acquired $3.9tn -enough to pay for a vaccine for every person in the world– while workers have lost $3.7tn dollars’ worth of earnings, with women and young people bearing the brunt.

The full and detrimental impact of these big corporations on worker’s lives have long since been realised, and now is the time to take action on these injustices.

*(even if you spent £1,000 every hour every day for the rest of your life – you still wouldn’t have spent a billion dollars).

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