Merchtem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Merchtem requires Dutch language lessons for living wage eligibility, aiming to boost integration and employment. Alderman Joris De Bosscher confirms exceptions for health issues; refusals may result in benefit loss.
As VRT News reported, the town of Merchtem, a municipality in the province of Flemish Brabant, is tightening the rules for getting a living wage, pushing for personal responsibility and integration through language learning. Previously, those applying for the wage already had to collect their decision in person, a step meant to involve them more directly.
Now, the town council has added a new requirement: if people don’t speak Dutch and refuse to attend Dutch classes, they won’t be able to get the living wage or access certain social services. Alderman Joris De Bosscher explains that this change aligns with existing legal standards, which require those seeking a living wage to show they’re willing to work.
Merchtem believes that a major hurdle to employment and integration for many is the unwillingness or inability to learn Dutch, which limits their opportunities in the job market and their ability to fully participate in society.
Is Merchtem’s Dutch language requirement fair for a living wage?
The government wants newcomers to learn Dutch. Merchtem’s plan agrees with this. They mentioned that, but some groups might not like it, as it could leave out people who need help the most. Not everyone can start classes right away because of problems like health or caring for others. Critics might say the rule punishes those who are already struggling. But Merchtem’s leaders think that by making people learn Dutch, they’re helping them join society and get jobs.
“Learning Dutch is not a punishment, but an opportunity.”
Reinhoud De Bosscher, alderman (N-VA)
The leader sees language as a way to be part of the community and to support oneself. He mentioned that the goal isn’t to punish anyone, but to give people the chance to build a life here. Learning Dutch is seen as a chance for jobs, friends, and growth. The leader knows many people are already learning Dutch. He says those who won’t try shouldn’t expect help without doing anything.
The local social welfare office will make this happen. People who aren’t from here and want money to live on will need to go to Dutch classes and talk in groups to practice. These groups are run by volunteers and help people use Dutch in everyday situations. They mentioned that this way, people learn grammar and words in class and then practice speaking in real life.
“That person did not come to the conversation tables, and that is why the living wage has been cancelled,”
De Bosscher explains.
“That person can appeal to the labour court, but we have the right to take such a measure.”
