werkrechten

Werkrechten are the legal and practical rights that govern the relationship between workers and employers in the Netherlands and, more broadly, within the European Union. They cover fair treatment, safe and healthy working conditions, reasonable working hours, and protection against discrimination and unfair dismissal. The rights are anchored in national legislation such as the Dutch Civil Code and the Working Conditions Act (Arbeidsomstandighedenwet), and are reinforced by EU directives on equal treatment, working time, safety, and social security, as well as by collective labor agreements (CAO) negotiated by employers and trade unions.

Core elements of werkrechten include non-discrimination and equal pay for equal work; minimum wage and timely wage payment; statutory leave, including paid annual leave; health and safety measures; maternity, paternity, and parental leave; rules governing dismissal and legitimate reasons for termination; and opportunities for training and professional development. Workers also have rights to organize, join trade unions, and bargain collectively, as well as protections for privacy and data in the workplace. Specific groups, such as temporary agency workers and whistleblowers, receive particular protections.

Enforcement of werkrechten is carried out by bodies such as the Inspectie SZW (the Inspectorate for Social Affairs and Employment), and disputes can be resolved in employment courts; the UWV handles certain social security and unemployment matters. The exact scope and application of these rights can vary by sector through CAOs and by individual employment contracts.