Ensuring the labour rights of freelancers: Challenges and prospects for legitimising income

The relevance of examining the protection of freelancersʼ labour rights and the de-shadowing of income derived from freelance activities arises from the high level of informal earnings in this sector and the current inability of Ukrainian legislation to apply effective legal mechanisms for state regulation and the enforcement of these workersʼ rights. Accordingly, the primary objectives and aim of this study were to identify methods for legitimising income from freelance work and to outline a set of legal measures aimed at encouraging the protection of freelancersʼ rights. The research explored the specific features of freelance activity in Ukraine and Europe, analysed the existing legal framework, and identified key gaps related to the regulation of freelance work in the region. A legal analysis was conducted to examine the dynamics of income generated from freelance work across various Ukrainian cities. Particular attention was given to an assessment that identified the weaknesses, strengths, risks and opportunities related to the further development of this form of employment. Through comparative legal analysis, the study highlighted key aspects of international experience in regulating freelance activity, which informed the development of recommendations aimed at addressing legal gaps in Ukrainian labour legislation. The practical relevance of the proposed recommendations lies in the potential to establish a new economic and legal framework for freelance work, enhance the effectiveness of state regulation, and introduce a range of measures to stimulate the de-shadowing of income earned through freelance activity