Five MEPs from the Patriots for Europe (PfE) group, led by Catherine Griset, have submitted a written parliamentary question to the European Commission calling for measures to promote European youth employment in the bicycle delivery sector and end what they describe as exploitation linked to immigration. The question, filed on 21 April 2026, targets food and parcel delivery platforms such as Uber Eats and Deliveroo, which the MEPs argue rely heavily on immigrant workers often in insecure or irregular conditions, exposing them to health risks and economic exploitation. The MEPs frame the issue as both a social and economic challenge, suggesting that these jobs could instead serve as a pathway for young Europeans—including students and cyclists—to enter the labour market while supporting the EU's climate goals.
The question contains three concrete asks. First, it inquires whether the Commission intends to promote a European workforce in the sector through programmes focused on soft mobility, sport, and youth employment, while respecting Member State competences. Second, it asks if the Commission plans to integrate these issues into policies on youth, sport, and the green transition to boost local and sustainable employment linked to urban cycling. Third, it requests encouragement of good-practice exchanges on social and health conditions to combat economic exploitation.
Policy orientation and ambition
The question reflects a clear policy orientation: prioritising EU youth employment over reliance on immigrant labour in the gig-economy delivery sector. The MEPs advocate for a shift toward a European workforce, linking this to climate objectives and active mobility. The ambition is moderate—no specific numerical targets or deadlines are proposed—but the framing suggests a desire for EU-level incentives and coordination rather than binding regulation. The question respects Member State competences, indicating a cautious approach to EU intervention.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, as per standard procedure for written questions. The answer will signal the Commission's stance on whether it views the gig-economy delivery sector as a priority for youth employment policy and whether it is willing to promote a European workforce in this area. The response may also clarify existing EU initiatives on platform work and social protection, and indicate openness to exchanging good practices on health and safety conditions.