The Resilience of Female Freelancing in Serbia: Socio-Economic Determinants and Adaptive Strategies

Abstract

This study analyzes the resilience of female freelancing in Serbia within the broader context of the digital economy and the evolving labour market. As freelancing becomes increasingly embedded in digitalized work structures, it offers new forms of economic participation for women, particularly in environments marked by persistent gender inequality. The study examines the socio-economic determinants that shape women’s entry into and sustainability within the freelance sector, including education, care responsibilities, digital skills, and access to online platforms. It further explores the adaptive strategies female freelancers employ to navigate systemic barriers and market volatility. The findings underscore both the empowering potential of freelancing for enhancing gender equality and the structural challenges that limit its transformative impact. In doing so, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how gender dynamics intersect with digital labour trends in transitional economies such as Serbia.