Ruben Brekelmans calls for return to five-day work week

Ruben Brekelmans, chairman of the VVD parliamentary group, has called for a return to the five-day work week as the standard in the Netherlands to drive economic growth. During his Binnenhof speech, Brekelmans expressed concern regarding the trend of younger generations opting for part-time employment, often working only three or four days a week. He argued that this trend, combined with a high number of people on unemployment, social assistance, and disability benefits, threatens the country's ability to meet labor market demands, care for an aging population, and fund essential sectors like housing and defense.

Brekelmans also addressed the political landscape, noting that the current minority cabinet grants opposition parties more responsibility and influence in determining the country's direction. He advocated for a 'new balance' between the coalition and the opposition.

Economists and experts have responded with caution. Representatives from the CBS and the University of Utrecht noted that increasing full-time employment is complex, as many part-time workers do so to manage childcare, family responsibilities, or health issues. They warned that a shift toward more full-time work could negatively impact volunteerism and informal caregiving.