Ghent labor market and unemployment benefit impact discussed

The Policy Group analyzed figures of the Ghent labor market and the consequences of limiting unemployment benefits.

Generic image of a microphone on a podium in a conference room.
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Generic image of a microphone on a podium in a conference room.

On September 15, 2026, the Policy Group convened to discuss the Ghent labor market and analyze the impact of limiting unemployment benefits.

During a meeting at Syntra Midden-Vlaanderen, where Thierry Semey presented the organization's operations, the focus was on entrepreneurship and integrating innovation into SMEs through training programs.
Yannick Thuy presented an overview of the Ghent labor market and available data on the impact of time-limiting unemployment benefits (BWIT).
Subsequently, the members of the Policy Group discussed the consequences of BWIT for their clients and organizations, leading to several findings:
  • The inflow of job seekers into training and guidance is shifting towards a structural group with more complex profiles.
  • A tension arises between faster activation and the need for longer guidance.
  • Many individuals end up in other support systems or fall through the cracks.
  • Training programs are under pressure.
  • The entire chain is struggling with capacity and budget constraints.
The Policy Group agreed to delve deeper into the theme of Lifelong Learning at a future meeting scheduled for February 16, 2027.
Based on information from the official source: Stad Gent — Nieuws (30/09/2026)