Belgian Employment Service Forem to Offer Job Opportunities Every Two Weeks Amid Benefit Reforms

New Measures to Boost Re-Employment in Wallonia

Forem, the public employment and training service in Wallonia, Belgium, is implementing a new policy designed to intensify support for job seekers. Under this initiative, unemployed individuals will now receive concrete job offers every fifteen days. This marks a significant shift in the approach to unemployment support and is part of broader reforms aimed at encouraging a quicker return to the workforce.

This measure comes as part of a wider effort to reform the unemployment benefit system in Belgium, which has historically allowed for unemployment benefits of unlimited duration. The country is moving towards a more active employment policy, emphasizing the responsibility of job seekers to actively search for work and accept suitable positions.

Context of Unemployment Benefit Exclusions

The introduction of these regular job offers coincides with a period of significant change for many long-term unemployed individuals. Reports indicate that the first official notifications regarding the exclusion from unemployment benefits have begun to reach those affected. This process could eventually impact a substantial number of people, with some estimates suggesting around 29,000 individuals might be excluded.

This move is a direct consequence of a re-evaluation of long-term unemployment, particularly for those who have been out of work for an extended period without sufficient proof of active job searching or participation in training. While the limitation of unemployment allowances is not presented as a punitive measure, it is intended to motivate engagement with the job market and available support services.

Support and Training Initiatives

To complement the stricter requirements, Forem and regional authorities are also increasing efforts to provide practical support. In Wallonia, for example, there are plans to create 5,000 new places across 270 different training programs by the end of 2025. These training opportunities are designed to equip job seekers with new skills that are in demand in the current labor market, thereby improving their chances of finding sustainable employment.

Meanwhile, various workers' unions are preparing to offer assistance and guidance to those who are facing exclusion from benefits. This support aims to help individuals navigate the complex administrative processes, understand their rights, and explore alternative pathways to employment or social support.

What happens next

The new system of bi-weekly job offers from Forem is expected to roll out consistently across Wallonia. As the policy takes full effect, the public employment service will continue to monitor its impact on re-employment rates and the overall number of people receiving unemployment benefits. The support structures, including training programs and union assistance, will be crucial in helping affected individuals adapt to these significant changes in Belgium's social and employment landscape.