Netherlands to replace 25,000 government jobs with AI in efficiency drive to save €3.5 billion
The Dutch government is looking to increase productivity by 20%, and apparently cutting 25,000 jobs will help them get there.
The Dutch government plans to eliminate 25,000 jobs by 2035 in an effort to boost efficiency and save €3.5 billion, roughly 16% of its total workforce. State Secretary Eric van der Burg announced the cuts, which he deems necessary for a more "central government that really works: simpler, smarter and smaller." The savings will come from various measures, including AI, smaller desks, selling off surplus buildings, and simplifying rules.
AI is expected to contribute a 20% productivity boost, while simplifying rules will involve scrapping or streamlining at least 500 regulations annually. While police and defense jobs remain unaffected, permanent advisory councils and committees will be spared from the cuts. The government anticipates a record number of central officials, peaking at 160,000 by the end of 2025, up 41% since 2018.
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