Platform Governance and Perceived Fairness in Professional Freelance Marketplaces: Evidence from Upwork

Abstract

Paulo H. Leocadio

This study examines governance dynamics in online freelancing platforms within the gig economy, using Upwork as a case study. It analyzes platform policies, enforcement mechanisms, and dispute processes to assess how governance structures affect freelancers and hiring organizations. Adopting a descriptive and analytical approach, the research evaluates fairness, risk distribution, and incentive alignment across user groups, with attention to observed patterns of compliance and circumvention. The findings situate Upwork within broader debates on digital labor governance, platform accountability, and institutional design, contributing empirical insight into how policy architecture shapes trust, participation, and market stability in mediated labor environments. Keywords: Gig economy; Online freelancing platforms; Platform governance; Digital labor markets; Policy enforcement; Freelancers.