Unemployment activation policies in Brussels remain a contentious topic, with control measures lagging behind those in Flanders and Wallonia. On 2025-06-19 14:22:00, Imane Belguenani highlighted that while Flanders and Wallonia achieve 80 percent control, Brussels possesses the necessary tools but refuses to deploy them effectively. This issue was raised during a committee hearing with Minister of Work Bernard Clerfayt.
- Control in Vlaanderen and Wallonië reaches 80%.
- Brussels refuses to deploy available control tools.
- Reform blocked by Brussels government and Actiris.
- Belguenani demands responsibility and activation enforcement.
- Calls for integrated guidance and control system.
- Urges Brussels to implement strong control policies.
Clerfayt explained that the reform is technically ready but blocked by the Brussels government and Actiris’s board. He emphasized the need for responsibility and participation in activation efforts, insisting that those able to work must be activated and negotiators must come to the table. This ongoing stalemate raises important questions about Brussels’ commitment to tackling unemployment activation.
What are the root causes of this deadlock, and how can Brussels improve its activation strategy? The answer lies in addressing structural challenges and fostering cooperation among key stakeholders.
The Brussels activation policy faces significant hurdles that undermine its effectiveness. Why does Brussels struggle where other regions succeed? The main issues include:
- Missing integration between guidance and control systems
- Lack of a shared digital dossier among Actiris, VDAB, Bruxelles Formation, and OCMWs
- Insufficient availability checks by OCMWs
- Political reluctance to implement reforms without alternative solutions
Moving forward, Brussels must break the status quo and embrace a coordinated, transparent activation policy. Can the government overcome political obstacles to ensure accountability and better support for jobseekers? The coming months will reveal whether Brussels is ready to act decisively or continue delaying necessary reforms.