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

L42, Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat 42, 1040 Brussels, Belguim

WHO

Freelancers, Policymakers, National and European associations, Tech providers – specifically targeting freelancers, City or regional authorities

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.

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. 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.

Programme

6 November 2024

15:00 – 15:30 | Welcome Coffee

Kick off the conference with a warm welcome and networking opportunity over coffee.

15:30 – 15:45 | Setting the Scene

Digifreelancer Presentation: Legal Gaps for Freelancers in Europe
Speaker: Dimitrios Moschos, Lead Project Manager, ReadLab Brussels
Format: In-person

This session will spotlight key legal gaps affecting freelancers across Europe, from unclear definitions to inconsistent protections. Learn about the challenges freelancers face in navigating these issues and discuss potential pathways for establishing fair, supportive policies that recognize and empower the freelance workforce in the digital age.

15:45 – 16:00 | Freelancing in Europe: Benefits to the Economy

Speaker: Glen Hodgson, Founder and Secretary General, Freelance Movement
Format: Remotely

Explore how freelancing contributes to Europe’s economy by driving innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting local growth. This session examines the economic impact of freelancers, their role in a flexible labor market, and how policies can empower freelancers to strengthen Europe’s economic resilience and adaptability.

16:00 – 17:45 | Round-table Debate

In this debate we will explore the potential of freelancing to drive personal, professional, and community growth across Europe. This session will address the unique challenges and opportunities that freelancers face, particularly in aligning local practices with broader EU frameworks. We’ll delve into questions around balancing harmonized legal definitions with the need for a flexible, entrepreneurship-friendly culture that respects local diversity.

We’ll also examine the role of freelancers in EU policy-making and discuss strategies to ensure their voices are heard in shaping future policies.

Speakers:

Mira-Maria Danisman

Head of EU office

Stefan Moritz

Secretary General of European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME

Krista De Spiegeleer

Policy Officer at European Commission

Menno Bart

Head of Policy Advocacy at The Adecco Group

17:45 – 18:00 | Launch of the European Freelancers Policy Network

Presented by: Elina Jutelyte, Founder, Freelance Business Community

This closing session will be the official launch of the European Freelancers Policy Network, a dedicated platform advocating for freelancers across Europe. This session will introduce the network’s mission, goals, and upcoming activities, highlighting its role in shaping supportive policies. Join to discover new initiatives and learn how you can get involved!

18:00 – 19:00 | Networking Reception

Location:

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Sign up for the first ever Freelance Policy Forum Europe event and create a brighter future for freelancers across Europe.