CNV demands 3 to 5.5 percent wage increase in new collective agreements: Workers must not foot the bill again

The Dutch trade union CNV has announced its salary demands for upcoming collective labor agreement negotiations, calling for increases between 3 and 5.5 percent. CNV chairman Hans van den Heuvel stated that these figures are based on a 2.8 percent inflation projection and a 2.5 percent growth in labor productivity. The union emphasizes that workers should not bear the financial burden during difficult economic times, particularly as they contribute to corporate growth. Furthermore, the union is pushing for a mandatory travel allowance of 25 cents per kilometer across all agreements to address rising fuel costs, noting that very few employees currently receive this maximum rate.

Beyond compensation, the union is prioritizing better work-life balance initiatives to combat high workplace stress and absenteeism. Proposals include enhanced support for caregivers, fully paid parental leave, and flexible arrangements for employees struggling to manage professional duties alongside family responsibilities. CNV aims to address these systemic issues, while the larger trade union FNV is expected to present its own wage demands in the coming days.