Netherlands: as expected, the 36-hour week is going to end

The government should announce, on September 18, 2007, at the same time as its 2008 budget, the end of the 36-hour week, and a return to the 40-hour week. Maria van Hoeven, Minister of Economic Affairs, declared on September 6 that the 40-hour week should now be the norm, to "increase everyone's involvement in the labour market." (Ref. 070731)
Enjoy this article for free while you’re in your trial period
You have access to our content for 1 month.

In 2006, according to the logic to suppress all early retirement agreements in collective agreements (see our stroy 06669), the government’s idea consists in increasing the number of active people in order to guarantee the financing of pensions better, in a country where the population is getting older. No detail was given on the practical modalities to return to the 40-hour week, which still remains to be discussed with social partners. Many employees are concerned: out of the 54% of active pe

Do you have information to share with us?
What you absolutely must read this week
The essential content of the week selected by the editorial team.
See all
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
United Kingdom: Parliament finally passes Employment Rights Bill
The UK Labour government's flagship reform of employment rights was passed by both houses on 16 December after a turbulent parliamentary process. The bill introduces numerous changes to labour...
18 December 2025
EU: social partners in telecoms sign joint statement on AI
On 16 December, the social partners in Europe's telecommunications sector unveiled a joint statement on artificial intelligence. They propose an action plan for skills and commit to raising...
18 December 2025
EU: MEPs demand directive on algorithmic management
Members of the European Parliament have called for a directive on algorithmic management. Such legislation would introduce obligations for companies to inform employees, assess health and safety...
17 December 2025
Most viewed articles of the month on mind HR
What readers clicked on the most last month.
What readers clicked on the most last month.
1
Spain: new terms and conditions for in-company training contracts
On 25 November, Spain's Council of Ministers approved a regulation on training contracts. This text defines the terms and conditions for hosting work-study students and interns doing professional...
2
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
3
Germany: apprenticeship openings fall sharply in manufacturing and chemicals
From 1 January 2026, Dutch collective agreements for temporary employment agencies will alter the employment conditions of temp workers. Agencies will be required to pay these workers at least the...