Senior civil servants who together form the General Administrative Service (ABD) play a crucial role in the daily steering of the important challenges we face in the Netherlands. The government program indicates that a reform agenda for simplifying the ABD system is being developed. The work of senior civil servants will increasingly focus on incorporating the perspectives of citizens and implementation. Furthermore, the awareness of the rule of law and civil service expertise will be enhanced.

With the reform, the ABD aligns with the development direction of the national service. Minister of the Interior Judith Uitermark outlines the first plans for this in a letter to the House of Representatives.

The letter regarding the reform agenda of the ABD contains decisions about the restructuring of expertise and the development of senior civil servants, while also describing options for simplifying the ABD. It is being considered whether the number of positions under the ABD can be reduced by between 500 and 1250 managers. This will allow the ABD to focus more specifically on senior civil servants with the greatest responsibilities.

More emphasis will be placed on leadership qualities, substantive expertise, practical knowledge, awareness of the rule of law, and direct connection with citizens. Weighing societal perspectives, involving practice, and testing feasibility will also receive more attention. The cabinet aims for a civil service leadership with diverse expertise and backgrounds. There is also a goal to ensure sufficient intake from outside the government. Additionally, we ensure that senior civil servants have closer connections with practice and involve it in their work. This will be included in a personal and measurable plan.

Measures being taken to further simplify the ABD are currently being investigated and will be announced mid-year.