"We have been too lenient": Minister Van Bossuyt asks OCMWs to take stricter action against welfare recipients who refuse jobs or training.

Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt emphasizes stricter measures for welfare recipients unwilling to work, stating that cultural or religious excuses will not be accepted. A new directive outlines criteria for assessing work readiness, with potential loss of benefits for non-compliance. Health issues do not exempt individuals from considering part-time work options. Students receiving welfare must also be available for work during weekends and holidays. Each case will still be evaluated individually by the OCMW.