6 November 2024, 15:00 Brussels, Belgium
ABOUT THE EVENT
Freelance Policy Forum Europe – is an initiative by the European Freelance Week, dedicated to bringing together policymakers, legislators, freelance economy players, associations, regional and national governmental representatives and freelancers with the goal to discuss the regulatory framework surrounding freelance work.
WHEN
6 November 2024, 15:00 CET
WHERE
Brussels, Belgium (venue to be announced)
WHO
Freelancers, Policymakers, National and European associations, Tech providers – specifically targeting freelancers, City or regional authorities
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Who are we?
Freelance Policy Forum Europe is an event established to unite a diverse group of stakeholders for important conversations about policies and legisation affecting freelancer work, including:
- civil servants from European, national and regional institutions
- members of the European Parliament
- freelance economy platforms and service providers
- associations and non-profits
- government representatives at both regional and national levels
- freelancers
Our mission is to create a space where we can have an open discussion and encourage collaboration among key players to shape and enhance the regulatory framework surrounding freelance economy.
This event is made possible by the Fiverr Freelance Community Impact Grant Programme, which celebrates the innovation, resilience, and creativity at the heart of the freelance community.
Read more about it here:
What do we want to achieve?
There are two key factors driving the Freelance Policy Forum Europe event, politics and policy.
First is the lack of political attention that Freelancers receive. There are approximately 27 million freelancers in the European Union, making up about 5% of the total workforce. The number of freelancers in the EU has been growing rapidly, with a 45% increase over the last decade, reflecting a significant shift towards more flexible and independent work models. However Freelancers get overlooked politically. To make freelancer friendly policies a priority, we want to highlight their role in industrial policy and take into account how freelancers are regulated and how to help them thrive.
Secondly, there is something at stake. Since 2014, the EU has introduced various policies impacting both freelancers and SMEs, significantly shaping their operational environment. With the new incoming European Commission and the new political guidelines presented it is clear that more policies are about to be unleashed on freelancers in Europe. Connecting Freelancers with European Policy makers is more urgent then ever! We aim for policymakers to recognise the contributions of freelancers and understand what freelancers need to receive fair compensation, social benefits, and protection against exploitation, through a structured debate.
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Programme
6 November 2024
15:00 – 16:15 | Freelancers Workshop
An interactive workshop aimed at providing a platform for freelancers to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for policy improvements. The workshop will also offer practical advice on navigating the freelance landscape in Europe.
Topics to be discussed:
- What are different regulatory difficulties faced by Freelancers in different EU Members States. ´
- Navigating the current legal framework for freelancers in the EU.
- Building support networks and communities for freelancers.
Moderator: Elina Jutelyte, Founder, Freelance Business Community
16:15 – 17:45 | European High-Level Freelancers Policy Debate
A structured debate focusing on the importance of a European Policy Network for Freelancers, the economic impact of freelancers in Europe, and the role of the EU in shaping supportive policies.
Topics to be discussed:
- SME’s and Freelancers in the Political Guidelines of Von der Leyen
- Economic contributions of freelancers and the necessity of tailored policies.
- The need for harmonized legal definitions and frameworks for freelance work across the EU.
- Social protection, taxation, and benefits for freelancers.
- Collaboration between government bodies, freelancers, and industry stakeholders.
Speakers to be announced
17:45 – 18:15 | Launch of the European Freelancers Policy Network
Description: The official launch of the European Freelancers Policy Network, outlining its mission, goals, and future activities.
Activities:
- Introduction to the network and its importance.
- Presentation of the network’s mission, goals, and future activities.
- Announcement of upcoming initiatives and how to get involved.
Speaker: Elina Jutelyte, Founder, Freelance Business Community
18:15 – 19:00 | Networking Reception
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