Dutch trade union urges EU to intervene over Netherlands' minimum wage law

FNV, the Dutch trade union, plans to ask the European Commission to intervene regarding the Netherlands’ implementation of the EU minimum wage directive. Although the Senate approved a bill on Tuesday to incorporate the directive into national law, FNV argues that the proposal falls short of the EU’s standards.

The EU directive imposes rules on exceptions to the standard minimum wage. FNV argues that the Dutch youth minimum wage and the deductions made for housing migrant workers do not meet these requirements. “This European law ensures workers better protection for their minimum wage. We won’t let the government off the hook with a failing grade,” says Dick Koerselman, FNV’s interim chair.

If the European Commission determines that the Netherlands is violating EU law, it can launch an infringement procedure, which could compel the country to comply with the directive. According to FNV, the Netherlands was among the last EU member states to adopt the minimum wage directive.

FNV plans to supply the European Commissioner with information to check whether the Netherlands is meeting all its obligations, including the treatment of migrant workers whose housing costs are deducted from their minimum wage. “These workers face discrimination based on their nationality. It’s time for the European Commission to step in,” says Dick Koerselman.

FNV has also raised concerns about the Dutch youth minimum wage. “There is no proof that it helps prevent youth unemployment or early school leaving, yet it weakens minimum wage protection for all young workers. The European Commission needs to take action,” says Neele Boelens, chair of FNV Young & United.