Government Employment in the Netherlands Reaches 1.1 Million FTEs in 2024
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The volume of labor in the Dutch government sector rose to over 1.1 million full-time equivalents (FTEs) in 2024, according to new figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). This marks the seventh consecutive year of expansion following a decline between 2011 and 2017, driven in part by austerity measures after the financial crisis.
Between 2018 and 2024, the public sector added 154,000 FTEs—a 16 percent increase. Growth was led by subsidized education (+54,000 FTEs, +15%), central government (+51,000 FTEs, +30%), and municipalities (+28,000 FTEs, +18%). The pace of hiring appears to have moderated in 2024, with growth flattening across all major subsectors compared to previous years.
Subsidized education remained the largest public employer, accounting for 36 percent of all government FTEs. The central government followed with 20 percent, and municipalities with 16 percent. Sectors like water boards, provinces, and social security funds made up much smaller shares.
Labor volume data over time shows a sharp contrast between the post-crisis period (2011–2017), when net public employment contracted by nearly 60,000 FTEs, and the steady rebound beginning in 2018. The most pronounced surge occurred between 2020 and 2022, where annual net increases exceeded 25,000 FTEs—a trend that tapered in 2023 and 2024.
In terms of compensation, government employees earned an average of €54 per hour in 2024, including wages and employer contributions. The highest hourly costs were seen in the central government and provincial sectors, while joint arrangements—many of which include social workshops—had the lowest average pay. Remuneration levels reflect job type, required skills, age demographics, and competition in the labor market.
Public payroll costs totaled over €97 billion in 2024, maintaining a stable 19 percent share of total government spending. CBS notes that this figure excludes external contractors and hired personnel.
Source: CBS – Statistics Netherlands
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