Dutch labour market stalls as employment growth flattens and men cut working hours
The number of employed people in the Netherlands has stopped rising for a second consecutive year, while average weekly hours have slipped, especially for men.
According to the latest figures from the Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek, the Dutch labour force did not grow in the most recent quarter, staying at the same level as a year earlier. The overall population continues to increase, meaning the share of non-workers has risen. The decline in employment is most pronounced among men aged 45 to 55, a trend now driven by fewer people actually working rather than demographic shifts.
Average weekly hours fell for men between 25 and 67, dropping by nearly one hour compared with four years ago, while women’s average hours rose modestly. Unemployment has edged up, with the jobless count higher than in previous years but still lower than in most other EU countries. The report also notes political commentary urging more work, reflecting ongoing debates about labour market policy.
Why it matters
Stagnant employment and shorter workweeks signal challenges for the Dutch economy and future growth prospects.
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