Who are homeworkers, according to economic definitions?

Homeworkers, according to economic definitions, refer specifically to individuals who engage in work from their homes, typically on a piece-work basis. This means they are compensated for the quantity of work they produce rather than receiving a fixed salary or hourly wage. This arrangement often allows for flexibility, but it can also lead to issues related to workers’ rights and conditions, as homeworkers may lack the protections afforded to traditional employees.

The term "homeworker" highlights a distinct category that reflects the growing trend of remote work, considerable in sectors like textiles, crafts, and other assembly line scenarios where individual productivity can be measured. Thus, recognizing homeworkers in this way supports a nuanced understanding of labor dynamics in the modern economy, particularly concerning informal work arrangements.

In contrast, individuals categorized under fixed contracts, freelance contractors, or part-time employees in a retail context do not embody the traditional definition of homeworkers. Fixed contract employees generally work under formal agreements, freelance contractors might operate from various locations and not specifically from home, while part-time retail employees are typically engaged in on-site roles rather than home-based work.