The Importance of Explainable AI for Gig Workers: A Case for Human-Centered XAI in the Gig Economy

AI-driven decision-making systems operate in the background of gig work platforms, playing a central role in job allocation, performance evaluation, and compensation. However, the opaque nature of these algorithmic systems has posed significant challenges for gig workers in terms of transparency, accountability, and fairness. Existing Explainable AI (XAI) frameworks, developed primarily for traditional domains, fail to adequately address the unique challenges and lived experiences of gig workers. This position paper argues for a tailored approach to XAI in the gig economy, building upon prior research in human-centered XAI (HCXAI). We propose future research directions aimed at developing XAI methods that center the needs and experiences of gig workers, promoting algorithmic transparency, and empowering workers in an AI-mediated labor landscape. By addressing the longstanding challenges of algorithmic opacity in gig work, we can work towards a more equitable and accountable future for this rapidly growing sector.