Upwork has announced that effective immediately, it has begun to cease operations in Russia and Belarus. Another important note is that Upwork membership in both countries will be canceled as well.
Upwork, the world’s largest freelancing website, will suspend operations in Russia and Belarus starting today (07 May 2022) and take full effect by May 1, 2022. This decision comes in light of the political, social, and military situation that is developing as a result of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine.
This decision was not taken lightly. For over a decade Upwork helped thousands of people in Russia and Belarus find meaningful work that can be done from anywhere. They heard inspiring stories about how freelance work has helped pay for college, purchase a home or a car, or support a family.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Upwork has made the decision to cease its operations in Russia and Belarus. |
| The decision is a result of changing regulatory and compliance requirements in those countries. |
| Freelancers in Russia and Belarus will no longer be able to use Upwork’s platform for finding clients and projects. |
| It is important for affected freelancers to explore alternative freelance platforms catering to the Russian and Belarusian markets. |
| Existing projects and contracts should be handled in accordance with Upwork’s guidance and by consulting with clients. |
| Staying updated with official announcements from Upwork is crucial to be aware of any potential future changes. |
Reasons Upwork Ceases Operation In Russia And Belarus
However, Putin’s increasingly belligerent land grab of Crimea and other parts of Ukraine has made it clear that he is willing to violate international law and human rights with no consequences. This violates Upwork’s core principles of freedom, fairness, trust, and safety for everyone using our platform.
Putin’s aggression also makes it difficult for Upwork to ensure the safety and quality of ongoing projects on the platform between freelancers in Ukraine and clients in Russia or Belarus. These are not decisions that Upwork wants to make, but they are necessary ones if they are to remain true to their mission of bringing economic empowerment everywhere.
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What Is Next?
The first step will be shutting down Upwork’s support for new business generation in Russia and Belarus. Over the next few days, freelancers and clients in Russia and Belarus will no longer be able to sign up for new accounts, initiate new contracts, and be visible in search.
While Upwork recognizes this decision may affect some of the freelancers in those regions, Upwork honors the relationships that exist between their customers and recognize the swift adjustments that they will need to make as they process this announcement. As such, existing contracts with talent and clients in the region will remain open, with final billing due by May 1, 2022. Until then it’s business as usual!
For the past several months Upwork has been keeping a close eye on the geopolitical situation in Belarus and Russia, and they have decided that it is in the best interest of their team members and customers to cease operations in these countries. This decision was made with the utmost consideration.
Upwork Support Ukraine
From the beginning of the war, Upwork has been fervently working to support the safety, security, and well-being of our many team members in the region, as well as the business needs of their customers. Upwork fully understand the significant impact this decision has on our Upwork community in Russia and Belarus, and we want these customers to know that if and when they are able to relocate to regions where we operate, Upwork will be eager to support them in continuing their work on our platform. Additionally, should the geopolitical situation in Russia and Belarus change, Upwork hopes to be able to resume operations.
Upwork is saddened to see geopolitical events beyond their control or influence disrupt their mission of creating economic opportunities. Their hearts and support go out to all those affected by this senseless aggression against Ukraine. They hope that a path to peace is ahead for Ukraine and are able to bring their mission back to Russia and Belarus in the future.
The Implications Of Upwork Ceases Operation On Russia And Belarus
How Does It Affect Freelancers?
As a freelancer or agency from Russia or Belarus, you will no longer be able to access your Upwork account after May 1st 2022.
What About My Clients?
If your client is based in either Russia or Belarus and needs help finding a new freelancer, please feel free to refer them to Upwork support to see if they have any help.
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This Will Have A Number Of Negative Effects:
1. A Lot Of Freelancers Will Lose Their Jobs
The end of Upwork’s cooperation will have far-reaching implications for Russian and Belarusian freelancers. Many people who rely on Upwork to make a living may lose their jobs and suffer from reduced income or even loss of income.
2. A Lot Of Other People Will Be Forced To Work For Less Money
Other freelance platforms are not nearly as popular as Upwork. They don’t provide the same level of support and protection. It means that Russian and Belarusian freelancers will be forced to work for less money in other freelancing platforms.
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3. Gig Economy Will Suffer Greatly
Upwork has ceased its operations in Russia and Belarus, leaving more than a million freelancers out of work. This is a catastrophe for the gig economy and the future of work.
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4. Loss Of The Main Source Of Income
Freelancing is a popular way to make money online. However, Upwork, one of the leading freelance sites that connect employers with skilled workers is shutting down its operation in Russia and Belarus. Freelancers based in these countries will lose more than 80% of their potential income.
5. Fewer Opportunities For Jobs
The decision comes as a shock to many freelance workers around the world but especially in these two countries, where there is an abundance of workers looking for jobs, but a lack of local opportunities.
For a long time, many people have used Upwork to find jobs whether it be freelance or full-time employment. It has been a great resource for businesses and freelancers alike because it was free to list your jobs so there were tons of listings available all over the world!
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Final Thoughts
It’s a little sad to see one of the best freelance markets in Eastern Europe go, but the reasons Upwork cited make sense.
Further Reading
Here are some additional articles for further reading on the topic:
Upwork Ceases Operations in Russia and Belarus: Read about the recent decision by Upwork to cease its operations in Russia and Belarus and the implications it has for freelancers in those regions.
Upwork Shuts Down Operations in Russia: Gain insights into the reasons behind Upwork’s decision to shut down its operations in Russia and how it affects freelancers and clients in the country.
Upwork Suspends Operations in Russia: Learn more about the suspension of Upwork’s operations in Russia, the factors contributing to this decision, and the potential impact on the freelance industry in the region.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Upwork ceasing operations in Russia and Belarus:
Q: Why did Upwork decide to cease operations in Russia and Belarus?
A: Upwork made the decision to cease operations in Russia and Belarus due to changing regulatory and compliance requirements in those countries.
Q: How will this decision affect freelancers in Russia and Belarus?
A: Freelancers in Russia and Belarus will no longer be able to use Upwork’s platform to find clients and projects, impacting their access to global opportunities.
Q: Are there alternative platforms available for freelancers in Russia and Belarus?
A: Yes, there are alternative freelance platforms available that cater to the Russian and Belarusian markets. Freelancers can explore these options to continue their freelance careers.
Q: What happens to the existing projects and contracts of freelancers in Russia and Belarus?
A: Upwork has provided guidance on how to handle ongoing projects and contracts. Freelancers are advised to refer to Upwork’s official communications and consult with their clients to ensure a smooth transition.
Q: Is there any possibility of Upwork resuming operations in Russia and Belarus in the future?
A: While the current decision is to cease operations, it’s always possible for circumstances to change. However, it’s advisable to stay updated with official announcements from Upwork regarding any potential changes in the future.
Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.