The Dutch economy has relied for years on international workers. From the greenhouses in Westland to the logistics hubs in Brabant without labour migrants, much would come to a halt. Yet, there is growing awareness that this dependency has its limits. The recent SER advisory report “Labour Migration of Value” stresses that the Netherlands must focus on quality rather than quantity: less labour migration where possible, but better organised where truly needed.
Stricter approach to labour abuses
In many sectors especially low-wage jobs labour migrants are indispensable but also vulnerable. Abuses related to working conditions, housing, and pay still occur too frequently. The SER advises tackling these issues more swiftly and firmly, including by expanding the Labour Inspectorate and improving cooperation with other agencies such as the Tax Authority and the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate. Employer organisations VNO-NCW and MKB-Nederland support this call and insist that “cowboys” who break the rules should be dealt with harshly.
Investing in technology and labour potential
To reduce dependence on low-paid migrant labour, the SER advocates for greater use of labour-saving technologies such as robotics and automation. Companies should receive support through knowledge sharing or tax incentives so that even small and medium-sized enterprises can adopt these innovations. At the same time, it is vital to make better use of the domestic labour potential through training, retraining, and improved working conditions.
More room for knowledge workers and skilled professionals
Not all forms of labour migration should be curtailed. On the contrary, the Netherlands urgently needs more knowledge workers and skilled professionals to address structural shortages in key sectors such as technology, healthcare, and the energy transition. The SER recommends keeping the highly skilled migrant scheme attractive and developing a separate programme for skilled workers from outside the EU. This group contributes to innovation, serves public interests, and strengthens the earning power of the Dutch economy.
Towards a future-proof economy
The SER’s advice focuses on three main goals: improving the position of migrant workers, directing migration toward societal challenges, and maintaining public support. Less migration, but better organized with emphasis on quality and fairness is the course the Netherlands should take, according to the advisory council. This approach brings a future-proof economy closer, one in which growth goes hand in hand with broad prosperity and a healthy labour market.
