Netherlands plans to cut 25,000 government jobs as it turns to AI: what we know
The Dutch government plans to cut about 25,000 central government jobs, around 16% of the workforce, over the next decade, using AI and simpler rules to save €3.5 billion a year. Here's what's planned and why it matters.
The Netherlands has announced one of the boldest plans yet to use artificial intelligence in government. On October 26, 2026, the Dutch government said it plans to cut about 25,000 central government jobs over the next decade, around 16% of its workforce, partly by using AI to do more of the work.
What’s planned
- Jobs: about 25,000 fewer central government jobs, spread over several years
- Savings: €900 million a year by 2027, rising to €3.5 billion a year from 2035
- Exempt: police and defence
- Details: the cabinet is expected to present detailed plans in the first quarter of 2027
How will they do it?
AI is a key part, but not the only one. The plan includes:
- Using AI to improve productivity and cut paperwork
- Simplifying or removing at least 500 rules every year
- Standardising IT systems across departments
- Reducing advisory bodies
- Using office space more efficiently
Why now?
The Dutch civil service has grown fast. Central government reached a record 160,000 employees at the end of 2025, up 41% since 2018, despite earlier promises to shrink it. State Secretary Eric van der Burg, responsible for government efficiency, said: “We cannot keep doing what we have been doing.”
Many governments talk about using AI to work smarter. The Netherlands is one of the first to attach a specific job number to it.
Will people be fired?
The government hasn’t said exactly how the cuts will be made or which departments will be affected most. Cuts spread over a decade are often achieved partly by not replacing people who retire or leave, but details aren’t public yet.
Why it matters beyond the Netherlands
- It’s a high-profile test of whether AI can really replace administrative work at large scale.
- Other governments will be watching the results, both the savings and any problems with service quality.
- It adds to the global debate about AI and jobs, especially office and administrative roles.
The risks
Using AI in government raises important questions: making sure decisions are fair and explainable, protecting citizens’ data, and keeping services working well for people who need help. The Netherlands is aware of these risks. A past scandal involving an automated system used to flag childcare benefit fraud caused serious harm and led the government to resign in 2021, so public trust in automated decision-making will be a key issue.
Frequently asked questions
How many jobs will the Netherlands cut?
About 25,000 central government jobs, roughly 16% of the workforce, over the next decade.
Is AI replacing these government workers?
AI is a major part of the plan, along with simpler rules, standard IT systems and fewer advisory bodies.
Which jobs are protected?
Police and defence are exempt from the cuts.
When will the details be known?
The Dutch cabinet is expected to present detailed plans in the first quarter of 2027.
