As a main feature of the self-actualization economy, self-employment is on the rise.

• Some 20% - 30% of working-age population (162 million people) in Europe and the USA are engaged in some kind of independent work. | Related Megatrend: Inequalities
• In Germany, 21 million people (30% of working age population), in the UK 14 million people (26% of working age population) are independent workers. 
• In France, there are more than 4 million slashers – 16% of the active population; for 77% of them, the second job being in a different sector than their primary job.  
  | Related Megatrend: Inequalities
• Women are more likely to be solopreneurs than men.
  | Related Megatrend: Inequalities
• Older population keeps active longer (by will or by necessity);
  over 50% of people 65+ in Germany, Sweden, and UK are earners through some independent work. 
  | Related Megatrends: Inequalities; Demography
• Social protection and labour market policies should be adapted to the evolving forms of employment and entrepreneurship. More than 50% of independent workers in Europe are not covered by unemployment benefits.| Related Megatrend: Inequalities
• Globally, the number of people in vulnerable forms of employment (e.g. self-employed) is rising. The estimated 1.4 billion people in vulnerable forms of employment in 2017 is projected to grow by 17 million per year in 2018 and 2019. In developing and emerging economies the rates are above 76% and 46% respectively. 
  | Related Megatrends: Inequalities; Demography

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