Dutch government proposes 25,000 civil service job cuts by 2035

The Dutch government said on Monday 26 October that it plans to eliminate about 25,000 full-time central civil service positions by 2035. State Secretary for Kingdom Relations and Decisive Government Eric van der Burg said the proposal would reduce a workforce of about 160,000 by roughly 16%.

The government said it aims to save €900 million in 2027 and €3.5 billion annually by 2035. Police and defence services are expected to be excluded, while the tax administration and Employee Insurance Agency UWV would not receive similar exemptions.

According to the government, ministries would review vacancies individually rather than apply a general hiring freeze. The plan includes wider use of artificial intelligence for administrative work, standardised IT systems and digital services. The Cabinet expects to present specific artificial intelligence objectives and savings plans in the first quarter of 2027.

The government also plans to remove 500 rules each year, cut spending on office accommodation, external consultants and advisory bodies, and reduce the number of policy evaluations. A broader strategy for the civil service is expected within six months, the government said.