A guest on the Flemish programme Terzake (VRT), Walloon Minister-President Adrien Dolimont responded to concerns raised by several CPAS following the entry into force, on 1 January 2026, of the time limit on unemployment benefits, a federal reform whose impact is greater in Wallonia.
From the very start of the interview, he places the measure in its political and electoral context: “It's a fairly major change. Since the government was formed, we knew this measure was coming. It featured in the programmes of all the majority parties.”
Adrien Dolimont acknowledges that the effects of the reform are greater in Wallonia than in Flanders. It is precisely for this reason that the Walloon Government chose to anticipate and support the transition. From the start of the term, thorough work was undertaken with the Minister for Economy and Employment, Pierre-Yves Jeholet, on professional reintegration and training, as well as employment and hiring support. The aim is clear: to avoid a simple shift to CPAS and to promote a lasting return to work.
In line with this approach, a survey was launched to precisely identify the needs of the Walloon economic fabric and redirect training towards sectors that are actually hiring. The aim is to ensure a better match between jobseekers' skills and companies' needs, while ensuring the efficient use of public money.
The Minister-President also points out that CPAS and municipalities, particularly in major cities such as Charleroi and Liège, have not remained inactive. Resources have been mobilised and teams strengthened to cope with the expected influx of applications, within a framework where federal funding was guaranteed at 100% for the first year, while calling for vigilance going forward.
While acknowledging that any reform of a system inevitably brings adjustments and disruption, Adrien Dolimont wants to be clear about the aim being pursued. The point is not to weaken those affected, but to support them towards employment within a framework that is sustainable for public finances.
The Belgian social model remains protective, and CPAS fully retain their supportive role. But this model must also encourage activation, responsibility and a lasting return to the labour market, with a clear goal: leaving no one behind.