Starting this week, Slovakia is implementing the “Work Instead of Benefits” initiative. Labor Minister Erik Tomáš (Hlas-SD) announced that anyone able to work who refuses a suitable job offer from the Office of Labor will lose their subsistence allowance—first for one month, and for three months if it happens again. Exceptions apply to those with legitimate barriers to employment.
The reform also introduces higher incentives for participating in training or community service. According to the Ministry, out of more than 120,000 benefit recipients, about 43,000 are considered fit to work, and they will be the main focus. Moreover, to help prevent discrimination, Roma assistants will support labor offices in connecting people from marginalized communities with jobs.
Source: TASR
