Overview
Social and Economic Council of the Netherlands (SER) is an independent advisory body that brings together representatives of employers, employees and independent experts to advise Dutch government and Parliament on social and economic policy. It was established by law to support dialogue and consensus on key issues affecting the Dutch economy and society, promoting broad prosperity that balances social, economic and environmental concerns.
Mission and focus areas
SER’s main goal is to promote broad prosperity through sustainable growth, decent work and an inclusive society with equitable income distribution. It contributes to socio-economic policies by providing advisory opinions on labour market policies, education, pensions, environment and energy, and by facilitating agreements such as covenants on responsible business conduct. Its work aligns with sustainable development and socio-economic aspects of ESG by shaping government approaches to issues like international responsible business conduct and sustainable supply chains.
Structure and governance
SER consists of members drawn from employers’ organisations, trade unions and Crown-appointed independent experts. Members work collaboratively to prepare advisory reports. A secretariat of around 150 staff supports SER’s operations, organised into departments such as labour market programmes, sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurship, governance and innovation, and globalisation. Leadership includes a President and Secretary-General, with Crown members serving as chairs of committees preparing reports.
Programs and offerings
SER produces independent advisory reports on socio-economic policy, publishes thematic research including future visions (e.g., broad prosperity to 2040) and provides platforms for dialogue among social partners. It facilitates national covenants, provides resources on employee participation and sustainable business practices, and engages in initiatives such as international responsible business conduct agreements. These outputs support policy makers, businesses and practitioners in understanding and navigating complex socio-economic and sustainability issues.
