Selma is long-term unemployed: ‘Better to be on social assistance forever than to apply for it again’

columnThe Netherlands wants to get rid of its long-term unemployed. However, initiatives often backfire. Anne-Marije Buckens (34) has had a company for over ten years with which she helps people over 50 find work. This week she spoke to some long-term unemployed, such as Selma, who prefers to stay on welfare rather than having to apply for it again.