News item | 26-05-2026 | 4:00 PM
The government wants an open conversation with employers and employees, where all options can be discussed. To make this possible, the government will discontinue the proposed bill to link the state pension age one-on-one to life expectancy and will not continue with its proposals regarding unemployment and disability benefits in the proposed form for the time being. By taking this first step, the government wants to reach agreements on a joint pact. Minister Vijlbrief wrote this in a letter inviting trade unions and employers for a discussion.
Minister Hans Vijlbrief of Social Affairs and Employment: “The world around us is changing rapidly and we want to be ready for that. I would like an open conversation about the major problems and possible solutions. About how we ensure that everyone can continue to participate in the labor market, even with the AI revolution that is coming our way. And about how we ensure that the disability system works for people again. In my conversations I hear how it keeps people trapped in an incomprehensible system. I want to make agreements about this with trade unions and employers in a pact for fair work.”
Disability
In the letter writes Minister Vijlbrief about a lady who did not dare to apply because she was afraid that she would lose her WIA benefit if her health deteriorated. He therefore speaks of a maze that can hardly be understood by the people involved. The long waiting times led to uncertainty and stress. As a solution, the minister mentions the importance of prevention, especially because of the influx of young people with psychological complaints. And the need to simplify the current scheme, for example by discussing the scheme for the long-term disabled (the IVA).
Labor market
Regarding the labor market, Minister Vijlbrief writes that work will look different than it does today due to technological changes. It is therefore important that people remain well trained throughout their career and can move from job to job more quickly. By focusing on training and guidance towards new work, the minister wants to achieve a ‘dismissal-free society’.
Finances
In the letter, the minister emphasizes that the government stands by its objective regarding a responsible development of public finances in the short and long term. The government does not want to pass on bills. This also requires choices and, according to the cabinet, is a condition for maintaining social security.
