European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
Eurofound's ERM database on restructuring-related legal regulations provides information on regulations in the Member States of the European Union and Norway which are explicitly or implicitly linked to anticipating and managing change.
Book 7, Title 10, Article 7:611a BW
Since 1 July 2020, Article 7:611a in Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code requires employers to provide necessary training for free. This obligation applies when training is needed to perform an employee’s current duties or to continue working if their job ends. It also covers training required by law or by collective labour agreements.
First, employers must enable employees to follow any training necessary for their present role. This can include courses, workshops, or on-the-job instruction. Second, if a position disappears or an employee is no longer able to perform it, the employer must offer retraining or upskilling for redeployment, as far as reasonably possible. Third, all compulsory training must be free of charge: employers cover fees, materials, exam costs, and paid time for training. Fourth, any clause that tries to recover these training costs from the employee is null and void and has no legal effect.
This law aims to keep workers’ skills up to date, remove financial barriers, and promote lifelong learning. It also gives employees a safety net if their role changes or ends, and aligns with the 2022 EU Directive on transparent and predictable employment conditions. Employers benefit by integrating training into workforce planning and by building a flexible, skilled workforce. Employees gain greater job security, improved skills, and clearer rights. Overall, Article 7:611a BW creates a fair framework that encourages continuous development, supports job retention, and helps companies adapt to changing labour needs. This creates clear and enforceable rights for both employers and employees
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Eurofound (2025), Netherlands: Employers obligation to provide skill development plans or training, Restructuring legislation database, Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/legislationdb/employers-obligation-to-provide-skill-development-plans-or-training/netherlands
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