Dutch Government to Mandate Internship Compensation for All Students
The Dutch cabinet plans to enshrine the right to internship compensation for all students in vocational (mbo), higher professional (hbo), and university (wo) education into law. While no minimum amount will be set initially, educational sectors and companies will be expected to arrange reasonable compensation independently, according to Minister Letschert of Education. She noted significant inconsistencies, with some students receiving compensation and others not. A minimum compensation amount is being omitted from the initial legislation due to the difficulty in determining sector-specific figures and concerns that excessively high amounts could deter companies from offering internships. Some organizations already have internship compensation stipulated in collective labor agreements (cao's), and new agreements like the Stagepact mbo (2023-2027) and Stagecode hbo (2025) aim to standardize compensation for mbo students to levels comparable to hbo and wo students. Statistics from March 2025 by CBS indicate that only 43% of mbo students received compensation, while a 2023 ResearchNed survey showed 75% of hbo students and 65% of wo students with mandatory internships received it (91% for optional internships). The minister is optimistic that companies will comply, citing the increasingly tight labor market which incentivizes businesses to attract and retain talent. The legislation will include a provision for a statutory minimum compensation if reasonable payments are not adequately implemented over time, with the minister promising strict oversight. The law is expected to take effect in 2028, following parliamentary debate and approval by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, where it is anticipated to have sufficient support.
The Dutch government's move to mandate internship compensation reflects a growing recognition of the economic value students contribute during their placements. By establishing a legal right without a fixed minimum, the policy attempts to balance student welfare with business feasibility, acknowledging that internship compensation needs vary by sector and role. This approach aims to mitigate potential negative impacts on internship availability, a critical concern for both students and employers. The legislation's success will hinge on effective monitoring and the willingness of industries to self-regulate reasonable compensation levels. Should this prove insufficient, the planned introduction of a statutory minimum suggests a tiered approach to policy intervention, prioritizing market-driven solutions before imposing stricter regulations. This policy could influence other European nations grappling with similar issues of unpaid or underpaid internships, particularly as the future of work emphasizes lifelong learning and adaptable skill development.
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