Brussels, August 4, 2024 – A vast majority of companies in Belgium support increasing the annual cap on student work hours from 475 to 650, according to a new survey by HR service provider Group S.
The findings, released on Sunday, indicate that 79.9% of the 750 surveyed companies are in favor of the proposal, while 7.5% remain neutral and 12.6% oppose the measure.
The survey highlights the growing reliance on student workers, with six in ten companies already employing them—primarily to tackle staff shortages. Among businesses already utilizing student labor, more than one-third (34%) indicated they would expand their student workforce if the proposed cap increase is implemented.
For companies that do not currently employ students, the results were more divided. Group S reported that 25% are considering hiring student workers, while 38% are against the idea and 37% remain undecided.
Flexibility for Businesses, Concerns for Unions
Frank Verbruggen, Legal Manager at Group S, emphasized that while some companies may not need additional student workers, the proposal offers increased flexibility in workforce planning.
“This measure provides companies with a solution to staff shortages and makes personnel planning easier. It is not necessarily about increasing the number of student jobs but rather about giving businesses more adaptability,” he explained.
The proposed increase in student work hours has, however, sparked criticism from labor unions. The liberal trade union CGSLB warned that such a move could transform student jobs, traditionally limited to summer employment, into year-round positions.
The youth section of the CSC union also raised concerns, arguing that allowing students to work more throughout the year might negatively impact their education.
“Students should focus on their studies. If they work continuously, it could hinder their academic success,” the union warned in a statement.
Balancing Economic Needs and Student Welfare
Belgium’s student labor regulations currently allow students to work up to 475 hours per year with reduced social security contributions.
This arrangement benefits both employers and students, as it provides businesses with a flexible workforce while allowing students to earn income with fewer deductions.
The push to raise the cap comes amid growing labor shortages in various sectors, particularly in retail, hospitality, and logistics.
Proponents argue that extending the limit to 650 hours would help businesses maintain stable staffing levels without needing to hire additional full-time employees.
However, opponents argue that expanding student work hours could lead to unintended consequences. They caution that businesses might prioritize cheaper student labor over full-time employees, potentially undermining job security for regular workers.
Additionally, there are concerns that students, lured by higher earnings, might dedicate less time to their studies.
The debate over the proposed measure is expected to continue, with policymakers weighing the benefits of increased workforce flexibility against the potential risks to student welfare.
As businesses and labor groups present their perspectives, the government will have to navigate a delicate balance between economic necessity and the long-term interests of young workers.
