As of January 1, 2026, a new system limiting unemployment benefits will come into effect in Flanders, developed by the VDAB agency. The main goal of the reform is to reduce budgetary pressure and encourage the unemployed to return to work more quickly. However, this move has already sparked widespread protests and concerns among unions.
Who Will Be Affected by the Limitation? Key Risk Groups:
- Long-term unemployed individuals with over 10 years of work experience
- Persons over 50 years old, for whom employment is more challenging
- Youth under 30, including recent graduates without work experience
- Residents of Brussels and other major cities with above-average unemployment rates
- Families with children receiving additional social benefits
Unemployment benefits will be paid for no more than two years, after which the right to payments ceases, even if the individual has not found employment. Currently, some categories of the unemployed can receive benefits for 3–4 years or more.
How Does the Government Explain the Reform?
Labor Minister David Clarinval believes that the current system is too lenient and demotivates people from seeking work. According to him, budget savings will amount to approximately €900 million in the first year and will double by 2029.
The minister also emphasizes that reducing benefit durations stimulates the activity of the unemployed and helps lower the overall unemployment rate.
What Challenges Arise in Preparing for the Reform?
VDAB has encountered issues due to the need to obtain personal data from the National Employment Office (RVA). Without accurate information, it’s difficult to determine who exactly will be subject to the new restrictions.
VDAB’s General Director Wim Adriaens warned that delays in data exchange could disrupt the timely implementation of the reform and complicate communication with the unemployed.
Public and Union Reactions
Unions oppose the new measures and warn of increasing social tension. According to the FGTB union, the reform will affect more than 145,000 people, including about 32,000 residents of Brussels.
Main Concerns:
- Increase in the number of people left without financial support
- Rise in poverty and social inequality
- Deterioration of the psychological state of the unemployed
- Increase in the number of people forced to accept low-paid or temporary jobs
The VDAB reform is a significant and controversial step in Belgium’s social protection system. On one hand, it aims to save the budget and activate the labor market. On the other, it raises concerns about the well-being of vulnerable population groups.
How it will work in practice remains to be seen. Currently, authorities and unions are negotiating to find a compromise that will reduce risks for the unemployed.
