Universities and Trade Unions Reach Agreement on New Collective Labour Agreement
Topical
Contact
Salary increase of 3.1%, an additional gross €50 per month, a one-off gross payment of €1,534, and agreements on the continuation of allowances during pregnancy and the right to disconnect.
Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) and the trade unions have reached an agreement in principle on the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) for Dutch Universities, with a term of one year. Under the agreement, employees will receive a structural salary increase of 3.1% from 1 July 2026, supplemented by an additional gross €50 per month. On average, this amounts to a salary increase of 4.1%. In addition, all employees employed on 1 July 2026 will receive a one-off gross payment of €1,534. The salary increase and the one-off payment will be paid no later than October 2026. The agreement is not only aimed at maintaining attractive employment conditions but also at fostering a working environment in which employees feel valued, safe and supported. The agreed measures place a strong emphasis on professional development, wellbeing, and a healthy work–life balance.
Contact
Hans Biemans, Vice-President of the University of Groningen and chief negotiator on behalf of UNL, said: "The budget cuts introduced by the previous government have had a significant impact on universities. With this agreement, we are able to offer a responsible salary increase while, together with the trade unions, making progress on several important issues."
Salary Increase and Focus on Development
Employees at Dutch universities contribute every day to the important public mission of delivering education, conducting research and creating societal impact. The CLA parties have therefore agreed on a structural salary increase that includes a partially fixed component, resulting in a relatively higher increase for employees in the lower salary scales.
The parties also remain committed to supporting employee development. This includes renewed attention for development days, which are currently not being utilised to their full extent.
In addition, the parties have agreed on several measures relating to pregnancy and work. PhD candidates will be entitled to a one-month extension of their employment contract when making use of breastfeeding and expressing facilities. Furthermore, allowances received by employees prior to pregnancy will continue to be paid during maternity leave.
Right to Disconnect
The agreement in principle also introduces the right to disconnect, helping employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and private life. In addition, the on-call allowance and attendance allowance will be expanded in recognition of the additional efforts required from employees who perform these duties.
The full agreement in principle, including all arrangements, is in Dutch available on the UNL website. An official English translation of the agreement in principle is currently being prepared and will be made available on this page as soon as possible. The parties will now submit the agreement to their respective constituencies and aim to reach a final agreement by 20 July 2026.
Disclaimer: This translation was generated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence. The English text is provided for informational purposes only. In the event of any discrepancy, the original Dutch text shall prevail.
