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Parliament Backs Softer AOW Changes as Jetten Seeks Opening and Unions Suspend Talks

The minority cabinet faces a test of its polder credentials after MPs urged a softer course on the AOW age.

Overview

  • The Tweede Kamer approved an SGP–Groep Markuszower motion to soften the coalition’s AOW interventions, with D66, VVD and CDA backing the rethink and securing a narrow majority.
  • FNV, CNV and VCP suspended all talks until the acceleration plan is withdrawn, saying any speed‑up violates the 2019 pension accord.
  • Prime Minister Rob Jetten acknowledged the need for an “opening” and offered to join an introductory meeting with social partners, while stating the revised proposal is not yet defined.
  • Opposition leaders accused Jetten of a “false start,” with GroenLinks‑PvdA and the PVV demanding the pension‑age plan be scrapped rather than merely softened.
  • Finance Minister Eelco Heinen said he wants to amend the newly passed box 3 wealth‑tax law to avoid failure in the Senate, prompting cross‑party criticism and fresh uncertainty over support.