In person icon Recasting the Regulatory State. How platforms disrupt and transform urban governance

Abstract

The rise of the platform economy presents a fundamental challenge to policymakers, compelling them to adapt their regulatory frameworks to address the unique challenges posed by these disruptive business models. This is particularly evident in larger cities, where the influence of platform companies like Uber, Airbnb, and delivery platform providers has introduced new urban dynamics. Responses to this challenge have varied, not just cross-nationally but, more significantly, across sectors and subnational levels, including cities. This panel seeks to explore, map, and analyse how subnational governments and administrations in major cities are adapting to the rise of the platform economy. We aim to understand how platforms are transforming urban governance, work, and daily life, as well as how the technologies underpinning these platforms, such as artificial intelligence and algorithms, are impacting regulatory practices We invite contributions that theorize, describe, and analyse the influence of platforms and their technologies on urban governance, policymaking, and administration. In particular this panel will engage with three broad themes: - Platforms and Regulation: Examining how platforms interact with regulatory policies, affect enforcement, and influence public administration processes, including shifts in regulatory standards - Platforms and Cities: focusing on the impact of platforms on urban governance, city’s infrastructure, public services and how platforms might transform work and life style in cites. - Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence and Platforms in Government: which a focus on tech governance and the roles of algorithms and AI in urban governance and regulation. We welcome both theoretical and empirical papers, particularly those employing a comparative approach across different regulatory domains, sectors, and levels of government. We are interested in case studies from cities and countries within as well as outside of Europe. This panel is part of closing conference for DFG-funded project (2022-2026) “REGULATE. Recasting the Regulatory State? Comparing the patterns of regulating platform companies across EU cities and sectors. Scholars wishing to present their research or related work on these themes are encouraged to submit abstracts (300 words detailing the theme, focus, and methodology) to Eliska.drapalova@wzb.eu by March 31, 2025.

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