Netherlands

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The difference in average hourly pay between men and women in the Netherlands was 10,5% in 2024. To narrow the gender pay gap the EU Pay Transparency Directive is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment in collaboration with employee and employer organizations. This directive aims to combat pay differences between men and women, by increasing transparency, which gives employees better insights into pay disparities. A draft bill has been submitted for consultation by the public (internet consultation). (Overheid.nl | Consultatie Wet implementatie Richtlijn loontransparantie mannen en vrouwen). 

To further address the gender pay gap, the Netherlands has taken multiple measures to improve the labour market position of women. For example, the ‘Top Women's Act’ aims to improve the representation of women in decision-making and management positions. This Act, which has entered into force in the Netherlands, seeks to achieve a more balanced male/female ratio in top positions within the private sector. The law includes an entry gender quota and target figures for greater diversity in the boardrooms of Dutch companies. Additionally, various measures were taken to raise awareness on the possibilities to take leave and share family responsibilities, and to reduce pregnancy discrimination in the labour market. 

The Ministry of Social Affairs also works together with societal organizations to improve gender equality. For example, WOMEN Inc. is an important network partner of the ministry and an advocacy organization that has been accelerating the emancipation of women in the Netherlands since 2005. They have actively worked to address unequal pay and raise awareness about this important issue Equal Pay WOMEN Inc.