nuAug 28, 2026, 04:32

Number of young people on welfare rises for third year in a row

The number of people receiving welfare in the Netherlands has risen for three consecutive years, with the sharpest increase occurring among individuals under the age of 27. Factors such as mental health issues, housing shortages, and debt are cited as primary contributors to this trend among young adults.

According to data from the national statistics agency CBS, the number of people receiving welfare benefits in the Netherlands has increased for the twelfth consecutive quarter. By the end of June 2026, 413,000 individuals under the retirement age were receiving assistance, with the most significant growth observed among young people under 27. This demographic has seen a consistent rise for fourteen quarters, reaching 44,000 recipients, representing a 27 percent increase since the end of 2022.

Experts from Divosa note that the nature of these cases is shifting, as many young applicants now face complex hurdles including mental health struggles, debt, and a lack of stable housing. While the increase is notable, some researchers suggest it may indicate that these vulnerable individuals are now successfully reaching municipal support systems. Legislative changes, such as the relaxation of the four-week job-search requirement, are intended to help municipalities provide faster assistance to those who are currently unable to enter the workforce.

Economy Business Netherlands

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

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