Self-Employed Workers in Spain Prepare for Nationwide Protests on November 30

On November 30, self-employed workers across Spain are set to engage in nationwide protests, spearheaded by the Platform for the Dignity of the Self-Employed. These demonstrations are a response to what many participants describe as overwhelming tax burdens, numerous bureaucratic obstacles, and insufficient protections for their rights. The main protest in Tenerife will take place at Weyler Square, starting at 10:00 AM, with participants rallying to voice their concerns and demands.

A Grassroots Movement Emerges

This initiative is being characterized as a grassroots movement that operates independently from traditional trade unions, political parties, and employer associations. It has arisen from the mounting frustration of self-employed individuals who feel increasingly burdened by their working conditions. The organizers anticipate a robust turnout from self-employed workers across various sectors, reflecting a collective desire for change and recognition.

The Platform for the Dignity of the Self-Employed is a coalition formed by individuals who share a common goal: to advocate for fair treatment and better working conditions. The movement has gained traction as more self-employed workers express their dissatisfaction with the current economic climate, which they believe is skewed against them. As they prepare for the protests, many participants are sharing their personal stories of struggle, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Demands for Equitable Treatment

The Platform for the Dignity of the Self-Employed has articulated several key demands aimed at improving the working conditions for self-employed individuals throughout Spain. Among these requests are:

• Implementation of fees that are proportional to actual income, ensuring that self-employed workers are not overburdened by fixed costs.
• Exemption from VAT for earnings up to €85,000, which would alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by small business owners.
• Abolition of the current requirement for self-employed individuals to act as state tax collectors, which includes managing VAT and contributions on behalf of the government.

In addition to these primary demands, the platform is advocating for a comprehensive reform of the cessation of activity provisions, which would provide better support for those who need to pause their work due to unforeseen circumstances. They are also calling for provisions for sick leave or family care replacements that come with reduced contributions, as well as social protections that align more closely with those enjoyed by salaried workers. Furthermore, the movement seeks to simplify the daily management processes for self-employed individuals by reducing bureaucratic hurdles, protecting personal and family home assets, and allowing cash payments while ensuring fair competition in payment methods.

Coordinated Protests Across the Nation

In addition to the main protest in Tenerife, similar demonstrations are scheduled to occur in at least 18 cities across Spain, including major urban centers such as Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, and Valencia. The organizers are keen to emphasize that these marches will be peaceful and non-partisan, with most events set to commence at 11:00 AM, except for those in the Canary Islands, which will begin at 10:00 AM.

The self-employed community is vocal about their struggles, asserting that they often lack set working hours, safety nets, and a meaningful voice in the current economic landscape. Many participants feel that it is crucial to take to the streets to advocate for their rights, expressing sentiments such as, “We do not ask for privileges; we ask to be allowed to work.” This statement encapsulates the essence of their fight: a desire for recognition and fair treatment in a system that they believe has overlooked their contributions.

The upcoming protests are not just about raising awareness; they represent a pivotal moment for self-employed workers in Spain. As they gather to voice their concerns, they hope to draw attention to the challenges they face daily and to push for legislative changes that will provide them with the support and protections they need to thrive.

Key points

• Nationwide protests by self-employed workers in Spain are set for November 30.
• The main protest in Tenerife will occur at Weyler Square at 10:00 AM.
• The movement operates independently of trade unions and political parties.
• Key demands include proportional fees based on income and VAT exemptions.
• Demonstrations will take place in at least 18 cities, including Madrid and Barcelona.
• The protests aim to address excessive tax burdens and lack of protections.
• Organizers expect widespread participation from various sectors.