Street sellers and the survival economy: social vulnerability and labor precarization

Abstract

Street vending is an activity carried out without social protection, presenting itself as an alternative for workers who have been excluded from the formal labor market. The growth of economic inequalities has made this alternative a means of survival for themselves and their dependents. Although street vendors provide services to society by carrying out their activities in public spaces, they face precarious working conditions and are excluded from social security protection due to the lack of regulation. In the absence of specific legislation, their work is often undervalued, and they suffer from both the State’s inaction and social marginalization, despite performing activities that benefit the entire population. This paper aims to analyze the situation of street vendors, addressing their concept, profile, the activities they carry out, and the lack of regulation, which results in legal and social security vulnerability. Bill No. 4867/2020, proposed by Federal Deputy Pastor Sargento Isidório, was introduced in the National Congress as a measure of great social relevance, as well as Complementary Law No. 424/2023, which addresses the formalization of street vendors in the municipality of Palmas - TO, although it still lacks mechanisms to guarantee contributions to the social security system. Finally, this study discusses the State’s responsibility in promoting dignity for these workers, advocating for the creation of public policies that include these individuals as subjects of both rights and duties. The proposal is for the State to go beyond repression and adopt measures that ensure rights and recognize street vending as an integral part of a society that contributes to social development.