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Employers' leader wants more efficient social security to prevent budget cuts

Coen van Oostrom, chairman of the employers' federation VNO-NCW, suggests that social security in the Netherlands should be organized more efficiently to avoid potential budget cuts. During an appearance on the television program WNL Op Zondag, he expressed hope that alternative solutions could be found to preserve the social safety net.

Politics Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Private landlords are renting out fewer properties in the city: "A problem for students"

Private rental properties in Amsterdam have decreased by 18 percent in three years as landlords sell their units due to new rent control laws and increased taxation. While this shift favors buyers, it creates a significant housing crisis for students and individuals who cannot afford to purchase property in the city.

No funding for Zuidasdok megaproject in new cabinet plans

The Dutch government has frozen funding for the northern part of the Zuidasdok project to prioritize the maintenance of existing national infrastructure. This decision delays one of the country's largest development projects, sparking concerns in Amsterdam over long-term economic and accessibility impacts.

From Nedersaksen line to A20 highway: billion-euro deficit forces cabinet to make tough infrastructure choices this week

The Dutch government is set to make challenging decisions this week on infrastructure investment due to a multi-billion euro budget deficit. Officials must weigh the urgent need to repair aging roads and bridges against the viability of new projects like the Nedersaksenlijn and the A20 highway.

It is tough, it is technical, but the solution for box 3 is also hyper-political

The Dutch cabinet is struggling to find a parliamentary majority for its tax plans, specifically regarding the controversial Box 3 issue. The government is currently navigating a difficult negotiation process between conflicting demands from right-wing opposition parties and internal disagreements within the three-party coalition.

Experts doubt effectiveness of new freelance law: 'Much remains a grey area'

The Dutch government plans to implement the Self-Employed Persons Act by 2028 to clarify the distinction between independent contractors and employees. Experts remain skeptical, however, arguing that the proposed assessment tests for work relationships and entrepreneurial status contain persistent gray areas and may place excessive administrative burdens on freelancers.