The Belgian government is set to implement significant changes to unemployment benefits starting next year, impacting thousands of workers. The new unemployment benefit reform aims to tighten eligibility rules, particularly for those who have not reached 30 years of work experience. This shift will affect approximately 50,000 unemployed individuals who currently fall short of this requirement.
- Regering voert stapsgewijze hervorming in
- Uitkering vervalt na 20 jaar werkloosheid
- Uitkering stopt na 8 jaar werkloosheid
- Uitkering eindigt na 2 jaar werkloosheid
- 50.000 werklozen missen 30 jaar werkervaring
- Uitzonderingen bepalen recht op uitkering
As of 2025-06-08 10:29:00, the phased rollout will begin on January 1, when benefits will cease for those unemployed for over 20 years. By March 1, the reform extends to those unemployed for more than eight years, followed by another phase in April targeting individuals unemployed for over two years without exceptions. How will these changes influence Belgium’s labour market? And what support remains for those affected?
What does this mean for the unemployed population? The reform raises important questions about social security and workforce reintegration. Key points include:
- A gradual phase-out to avoid sudden loss of benefits
- Focus on encouraging longer work histories before claiming benefits
- Potential pressure on social services as more lose eligibility
- Exceptions remain for certain cases, but criteria are stricter
Looking ahead, it will be crucial for policymakers and support organisations to monitor the reform’s impact closely. Will additional measures be needed to help those losing benefits? Belgian workers and employers alike should stay informed and prepared for these upcoming changes.
