Enterprises with an aura of holiness inevitably provoke the response of cynics, rightly or wrongly. Working together for a good cause increases the feeling of solidarity Uber must have thought. For the first time in Uber's existence, the company is explicitly asking not to use its services and offering 50.000 free rides to victims of domestic violence.
In a CNN interview with Andrew Macdonald, the Vice President at Uber, Uber gets all the attention after calling on people to stay at home in an ad campaign and avoid essential travel. The company indicates that all drivers respond to Uber's request and observe social distancing. In an advertising campaign and while using the Uber app, the customer sees the message not to travel.
from taxi driver to meal deliverer
Uber realizes that this action means that the affiliated drivers no longer have any income. However, the company asks that these drivers try to make the most of the support measures granted in many countries. In addition, this clever move by Uber is a measure to play a good 'employer'. In the software they offer 'The Worker'. This section allows taxi drivers to work in other branches of Uber such as Uber Eats or other delivery services. These services are doing particularly well due to the corona crisis.
“We all have a responsibility to resolve this pandemic. When everyone stays at home, this can only be done faster, ”said Andrew Macdonald
Uber has also made every effort to actively participate in petitions in various countries and requests to encourage the government to develop support measures for the taxi sector. Successful in more than 20 countries. In South Africa, Uber deployed its drivers to deliver medicines.
acting for victims of domestic violence
Starting next week, Uber plans to offer 50.000 free rides to victims of domestic violence. With this action, Uber wants to minimize the barrier to being taken to a safe place. The company wants to offer free taxi rides worldwide where necessary. The shelters will distribute the vouchers to victims where there is really a need.
little to notice in the Netherlands
Despite Andrew Macdonald indicating that this campaign is being carried out worldwide by Uber, there is very little noticeable in the Netherlands and people can normally use the services in Amsterdam without any warning not to travel. Earlier Uber also got criticism from FNV about his attitude during this corona crisis and the way in which they want to avoid responsibility as an employer.
“Self-employed taxi drivers and Uber taxi drivers have now had to fight hard for help. While in the case of Uber taxi drivers, Uber, as an employer, should have appealed to the NOW scheme, ”said Amrit Sewgobind driver FNV Flex and Compliance.
Companies like to show that they have the best for the world, but often they do not know how to make sense of their social involvement.
Also read: Criticism of Uber after signing aid letter
