A group of around forty migrants and refugees from countries like Somalia, Syria, and Afghanistan recently gathered in a community center near Haarlem. They met to learn about upcoming changes to the Dutch freelancer (zzp) regulations that could significantly impact their work and livelihoods.
Many attendees work in transport and logistics as self-employed professionals, or "zzp'ers," often without fully understanding what this status entails. Some have been effectively compelled to register as freelancers to obtain work, without being informed of the responsibilities and risks involved.
Mahad Ahmed, chairman of the Stichting Somaliërs Haarlem & Omgeving (SSHO), highlighted the widespread lack of awareness among migrant freelancers. "Most people here don't have disability insurance, aren't building a pension, and sometimes don't even know they need to pay income tax," he explained. This gap in knowledge can lead to financial difficulties, as earnings are often spent without setting aside funds for taxes and other obligations.
Omar Osman, a self-employed taxi driver for nine years, shared his experience. He only discovered after three years that he was required to pay income tax, resulting in a debt of nearly €10,000. "I spent a very long time paying it back," he said. Stories like Osman's illustrate the challenges faced by those who are thrust into self-employment without adequate support.
The Dutch government's forthcoming enforcement of zzp legislation aims to protect such "forced" freelancers from exploitation. Employers may prefer hiring individuals as zzp'ers to reduce costs and avoid responsibilities, but this practice can leave workers vulnerable. The impending changes have already prompted shifts in various sectors; for example, Uber Eats announced plans to cease working with freelancers starting January 1.
Despite the intended protections, the new regulations are causing anxiety among migrant workers. "There's a kind of culture of fear," Ahmed noted, pointing out the confusion stemming from conflicting information on social media. Many migrants find the Dutch system complex and are apprehensive about interacting with official institutions.
As the meeting concluded, Osman expressed both concern and hope. "I've heard so many things I didn't know," he said. "I just want to work happily, without headaches over things I don't understand."
Source: NOS News