Belgium is set to experience significant changes in its career guidance system as Minister of Employment, Sammy Mahdi, announces a reform of loopbaanbegeleiding. These reforms, effective from 2025-07-02 09:38:00, aim to improve the quality and efficiency of career coaching, impacting both employees and employers nationwide.
- Demir transforms career guidance into career credit
- Training credit becomes more expensive and strict
- Demir cuts funding for non-official career coaches
- Career cheques reform aims for accountability
- Career advice fees increase with tougher requirements
The new approach replaces the current system with a more stringent and costly loopbaankrediet, focusing on stricter eligibility criteria and higher standards for coaches. This shift intends to move away from what some critics call ‘boomknuffelcoaches’ or overly lenient advisors, ensuring that public funds are used more effectively.
How will these reforms affect Belgian workers seeking career development? And will the increased costs discourage participation or improve outcomes? The answers lie in the details of these changes, which we explore below.
What does this mean for the average Belgian employee? The reforms raise important questions about accessibility and effectiveness:
- Loopbaankrediet will become more expensive, potentially limiting access for some workers.
- Only certified coaches meeting higher standards can offer guidance, ensuring professional support.
- Training subsidies will have stricter conditions, focusing on relevant and impactful education.
- Public funds will be safeguarded against misuse, with a clear emphasis on accountability.
As these reforms roll out, Belgian workers and employers should stay informed and adapt to the new system to maximize career opportunities. Will the higher costs deter participation, or will the improved quality drive better career outcomes? Only time will tell, but the focus on professionalisation marks a decisive step forward.
