Netherlands to cut 25,000 government jobs as it turns to AI

The Dutch government plans to cut around 25,000 full-time central government jobs over several years, saving €900m in 2027 and up to €3.5bn a year from 2035. The cabinet will set out AI adoption goals and savings plans in the first quarter of 2027.

• Ministries and inspectorates hit hardest, with some departments losing 45–60% of staff
• Savings reach €900m in 2027 and €3.5bn a year from 2035
• Police and defence are exempt from the cuts
• The plan also scraps or simplifies at least 500 rules a year