E. A. Kolesnik. Contradictions of the Labor Market in the Gig Economy: Features of the Russian Model

https://doi.org/10.15507/2413-1407.26342.438-462
EDN: https://elibrary.ru/szlsepISSN 2413-1407
УДК / UDC 316.334.22:339.175 ISSN 2587-8549

Abstract

Introduction. Russia's active economic development presupposes the interaction of contradictory factors (institutional, economic, social, and organizational) in the labor market, necessitating a comprehensive analysis that takes into account challenges and national specifics. The purpose of this study is to identify the main contradictions in the labor market in the gig economy and examine how they manifest themselves in the Russian model.

Materials and Methods. The research methodology is based on a systems approach, combining labor transformation theory, institutional theory, and regional analysis. Methods employed include comparative analysis (of freelancing and platform employment in Russia and abroad, and legal regulation), statistical analysis (Rosstat data, freelancing platforms, and analytical reports), content analysis of scientific publications, search query analysis (Google Trends), and a qualitative method (typification of contradictions). This allowed us to identify key trends and offer a systemic understanding of the transformation of the labor market under the influence of the gig economy.

Results. A typology of gig economy contradictions has been developed, encompassing universal and specific aspects of freelancing and platform employment. Differences in the manifestation of these contradictions are identified depending on the form of employment. It is shown that the gig economy in Russia is developing dynamically but unevenly: freelancing is growing, while platform employment is declining, although it remains significant for certain demographic groups. A growing interest in freelancing and self-employment, as well as regional disparities in the development of platform employment, are identified.

Conclusion. The results have practical significance for identifying systemic problems in the gig economy and may be useful for government agencies, businesses, and the scientific community in developing labor policy. Future research opportunities lie in an in-depth study of the impact of digitalization on the labor market, as well as in finding a balance between employment flexibility and the sustainability of labor relations.

Keywords: freelancing, platform employment, transformation of labor relations, legal uncertainty, regulatory challenges, regional differentiation, regional disparities

Conflict of interest. The author declares no conflict of interest.

For citation: Kolesnik E.A. Contradictions of the Labor Market in the Gig Economy: Features of the Russian Model. Russian Journal of Regional Studies. 2026;34(2):438–462. https://doi.org/10.15507/2413-1407.26342.438-462

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About the author:

Elena A. Kolesnik, Cand.Sci. (Econ.), Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Chair of Marketing and Municipal Management, Industrial University of Tyumen (38 Volodarskogo St., Tyumen 625000, Russian Federation), ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5678-2257, Researcher ID: P-2746-2017, Scopus ID: 57205248526, SPIN-code: 3908-2820, kolesnikea@tyuiu.ru

Availability of data and materials. The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the author on reasonable request.

The author has read and approved the final manuscript.

Submitted 27.06.2025; revised 20.10.2025; accepted 30.10.2025.