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Update on coronavirus and temporary unemployment in Belgium

Belgium
15.04.20
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Claeys & Engels offers reassurance in the full range of human resources matters and fast, efficient and pragmatic legal advice.
The temporary unemployment regime due to force majeure has now been extended until 31 May 2020.

With effect as of 13 March 2020, the regime of temporary unemployment due to force majeure has been extended and broadened. Initially, this ‘Corona unemployment’ regime was applicable for the duration of the government measures, i.e. currently until 19 April (those these are very likely to be extended until 3 May). The Minister of Employment has now decided that ‘Corona unemployment’ will be extended until 31 May 2020.

The National Employment Office will continue to interpret the broadened concept of force majeure, covering not only classic force majeure situations, but also difficult economic circumstances due to Covid‑19. In other words, until 31 May 2020, the regime of temporary unemployment for economic reasons (which is subject to procedures that are more complex) will be suspended.