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

L24, 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 – 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.