Belgium to restrict unemployment benefits to 2 years

ISTANBUL

Belgium will limit unemployment benefits to two years, the country’s economy minister announced Thursday.

“We are limiting the duration of unemployment and advocating for the rapid activation of these individuals: 175,000 jobs are available in Belgium,” David Clarinval wrote on X.

He added that nearly one in two unemployed people under 55 have been out of work for more than five years.

"Unemployment is not a career plan,” Clarinval said.

Speaking to Bel RTL radio, he confirmed that the government would allow for jobseekers to collect benefits for up to two years.

He also said the government would support them in reentering the labor force through training and expanded job opportunities.

Discussions are ongoing about the timeline for implementation, Clarinval said, and added that the government plans to include a transition period.

Belgium is one of the few European countries that currently does not limit the duration of unemployment benefits, according to the Brussels Times. Under current rules, unemployed individuals are entitled to 65% of their last salary.

More than 100,000 people could be affected by the new unemployment strategy, according to the daily.

After months of political deadlock in Belgium, a coalition government took office earlier this year, vowing to push an ambitious reform agenda that includes changes to pensions, social security, and health care.

Belgium is one of seven EU countries facing disciplinary action over a deficit exceeding the bloc’s 3% of gross domestic product limit.