Job creation target for disabled unlikely to be met

By the end of this year, employers were supposed to create 125,000 jobs for people with disabilities over a decade. However, it appears unlikely that this goal will be met, as only about 88,000 jobs have been created, according to the latest report from the UWV.

Discussions are scheduled in the Dutch Parliament next week regarding the simplification and future of this employment agreement. The Job Agreement Act of 2015 aimed to create a more inclusive labor market, achieving partial success, according to experts.

Employers can apply for subsidies to adapt workplaces and mitigate risks, providing people under the agreement with more job opportunities. Critics argue the agreement is too complex, making it difficult for smaller employers to manage.

There is hesitancy among employers due to perceived risks and costs associated with employing disabled workers. Additionally, the Target Group Register, which determines eligibility for these jobs, is criticized as some disabled individuals not listed have fewer opportunities.

Research shows that many individuals in the target group lack real chances for paid employment. The agreement has indirectly created jobs, such as advisors, rather than directly benefiting disabled workers.

The ministry of SZW states that the agreement will continue regardless of whether the target is met, with a new proposal to simplify it being discussed in Parliament.

Source: NOS

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