Dissatisfaction with government communication
Despite the increased pressure, leaving self-employment does not seem to be a serious consideration for most. Four out of ten indicate they are not thinking about it. Those who wish to continue working as independents expect clarity from the government. In that regard, there is still much to gain. More than two-thirds (69%) indicate they are aware of the enforcement strategy, but at the same time, 71 percent are dissatisfied with the way the government informs about the enforcement of false self-employment through its own channels. Freelancers are even more critical when it comes to practical interpretation. 77 percent indicate they do not know which assignments they are allowed or not allowed to perform as independents.
Mixed feelings about the BAZ and Self-Employment Act proposals
Freelancers were also asked for their opinion regarding the proposals for the Basic Insurance for Self-Employed Disability (BAZ) and the Self-Employment Act. Opinions are divided on this as well. Regarding the BAZ – which has officially been sent to the House of Representatives – nearly 38 percent are positive about a mandatory disability insurance, while 39 percent consider it a bad idea. At the same time, the vast majority of freelancers have already made their own arrangements for disability and pension. Nearly sixty percent save, and almost fifty percent already have private insurance against disability.
The Self-Employment Act, which aims to clarify which assignments can be performed by a freelancer, is also not yet convincing. Just over a quarter of freelancers (28%) expect this law to achieve that goal in practice.
Sem Overduin, Manager Public Affairs & Public Policy at HeadFirst Group: "The results paint a clear picture of the sentiment among highly educated freelancers. Clients are more hesitant to engage freelancers, and this uncertainty directly translates into fewer assignments. At the same time, the opinion monitor shows that there is a great need for clear communication from the government, especially at a time when a lot of misinformation is circulating on social media. We urge the government to communicate actively, concretely, and clearly about what is and is not possible. With clear information, the market can once again collaborate confidently with independent professionals, because in a tight labor market, we need all workers desperately."
