A group of more than 200 drivers from ride-hailing platforms such as Uber gathered in Brussels to demand lower commissions, higher pay rates, and unified rules for taxis and street cabs in Belgium. The Belgian Association of Limousine Drivers organized the demonstration, which included drivers from Uber and Bolt who expressed concerns about bankruptcy due to rising commissions and competition from other ride-sharing apps and traditional taxis. The drivers met with unions before heading to the Brussels parliament and Uber headquarters to voice their frustrations.
One driver, Shah Syed, highlighted the detrimental impact of the increasing commission rates, which are set to rise by an additional 10%. He stated that this increase was catastrophic for him personally as he was now earning half of what he previously made. In addition to the commission increases, ride-hailing drivers are facing the requirement to switch to electric vehicles by January 2025, which has caused further financial concerns. The President of the Belgian Limousine Drivers Association, Jean-Paul Mbenti, emphasized the lack of readiness among drivers for this transition and urged the government to postpone the requirement by two years to allow for adequate preparation.
The drivers are calling on the parliament to improve sector regulations, particularly in capping the commissions taken by platform owners to ensure fairer pay for drivers. Traditional taxi drivers who participated in the demonstration also expressed frustration over working conditions and wages, citing unfair competition from ride-sharing platforms. They are seeking a minimum rate that excludes commissions and fare adjustments for nights or holidays, as well as separate pick-up zones to address these concerns. The drivers highlighted the need for unified rules and fair treatment across all taxi services in Belgium.
The drivers’ demands for lower commissions, higher pay rates, and unified rules reflect their concerns about financial stability and profitability in an increasingly competitive industry. The call to postpone the transition to electric vehicles and improve regulation of the sector aims to address immediate challenges faced by drivers and ensure a fair working environment. By voicing their frustrations and organizing demonstrations, the drivers are advocating for better working conditions and fair compensation for their services. The participation of both ride-hailing and traditional taxi drivers in the protest demonstrates a united front in seeking improved regulations and support from the government and industry stakeholders.
As the debate over commission rates, pay rates, and regulations continues, the drivers are seeking a collaborative approach to address the challenges faced by the industry. By uniting in their demands for fair treatment and improved working conditions, the drivers are advocating for sustainable solutions that benefit all drivers in the sector. The demonstration in Brussels serves as a platform for drivers to voice their concerns and push for meaningful change that addresses the issues of profitability, competition, and sustainability in the taxi and ride-sharing industry in Belgium. Through continued efforts and advocacy, the drivers aim to create a more stable and equitable environment for all those involved in providing transportation services.
