Work

Between freedoms and (in)subordinations: experiences of female urban cycle delivery workers

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Female cycle delivery workers are located at the intersection between bicycle use, gender relations, and delivery activities, and may be subject to the existing power relations in each sphere, interconnectedly. This article investigates the influence of these relationships on the experiences of female cycle delivery workers in the cities of Belo Horizonte and São Paulo. A content analysis of semi--structured interviews with fourteen cycle couriers was carried out. The results show the influence of power relations, especially on perceptions of insecurity, and the provisional and complementary aspect associated with the activity. Despite this, the transforming potential of the activity was also demonstrated, as it can provide an experience of great value in terms of female empowerment, freedom, autonomy, and resilience.

Source: Cadernos Metrópole

DOI: 10.1590/2236-9996.2025-6363185-en

Authors: Luiza Fleury de FREITAS, Leandro CARDOSO

Institution: Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais

Language: English

Topic: Employment, Labor, and Gender Studies

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico