Digital Amensalism in the Platform Economy: Patterns and Economic Consequences

The article explores the phenomenon of digital amensalism as a new form of asymmetric interaction in the digital economy. It conceptualizes digital amensalism as the one-sided structural influence of powerful technological platforms on weaker market participants, occurring without direct benefit or competitive intent on the part of the platforms. Unlike classical forms of market interaction, platform-based amensalism is manifested through restricted access architectures, algorithmic invisibility, data redistribution, and silent exclusion without open confrontation. The methodological foundation of the study lies in applying the bioecological model of amensalism to the context of the digital economy. The paper outlines illustrative cases of digital amensalism (Google, Spotify, YouTube) to demonstrate how dominant platforms may marginalize niche or local subjects unintentionally. It introduces the concept of the “technoglobalist potential of platforms,” explaining how these entities are capable of reshaping institutional rules at the global level. Furthermore, it analyzes various scenarios of digital platforms’ influence on labor markets, business competition, and local entrepreneurship. Particular attention is paid to political and regulatory instruments that may reduce the effects of digital amensalism: ensuring algorithmic transparency, supporting local businesses, setting labor standards for platform-based employment, and adopting international frameworks such as the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act). The article offers specific policy recommendations for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of adopting European experience in digital regulation, ensuring digital equity, and preventing structural suppression by global platforms. Applying the concept of digital amensalism provides a new lens to interpret the risks of the modern economy. The proposed approaches may serve as a foundation for building a more equitable and balanced digital environment in Ukraine.