Resilient labour markets and demographic change in selected regions of the Netherlands

Abstract

Although the population of the Netherlands is increasing, the population growth rate, even if fluctuating considerably, has been declining since the 1960s. The age structure of the Netherlands since the 1960s has also experienced change, declining youth (under 20 years old), growth and then decline in the 20–40 year-old age cohort, a significant increase in the 40–65 age cohort, and gradual increases in the 65–80+ cohort. As a result of the changing demography, the workforce will be older and this will impact upon the labour market, increasing the number of older workers and reducing the number of new entrants. The case study of the Netherlands revealed the different responses to demographic challenges occurring within the selected regions; with each region (Groningen/Drenthe, Limburg and Zeeland) experiencing different issues associated with its socio-economic situation, localised population shrinkage, population ageing, migration, labour shortages and skill gaps.