Genk, Belgium – The city of Genk has introduced new housing regulations aimed at managing accommodations for international workers, as part of a broader initiative to increase local employment and ensure fair housing conditions.

Under these regulations, foreign workers must obtain permits and meet certain criteria to reside in Genk, with explicit prioritization given to local residents in job opportunities.

The regulations dictate the conditions under which housing for migrant workers can be provided, seeking to avoid the over-concentration of such accommodations in specific neighborhoods.

Individuals or companies wishing to offer housing must secure an operating permit and a certificate of conformity, which verifies that the accommodations comply with essential technical and safety standards similar to those required for lodging facilities.

The primary objective is to create a safe and balanced living environment for all residents.

The new policy emphasizes the need for landlords to adhere to existing employment and rental laws, aiming to combat issues such as overcrowding and unsafe living conditions in worker housing.

The city has expressed its commitment to addressing illegal rentals and enhancing protections for international workers.

As stated by Alderman Mustafa Harraq (CD&V), an essential condition for international workers wishing to live in Genk is that they must also be employed within the city.

Harraq highlighted concerns that entities from neighboring countries might purchase properties in Genk to accommodate workers who cannot find housing in their home countries.

In addition to the housing regulations, Genk officials have mandated that businesses actively seek to hire unemployed locals before considering international labor for job vacancies.

Employers must demonstrate substantial efforts to recruit from the local population, which includes collaborating with local job centers and conducting outreach campaigns aimed at potential candidates.

Only after exhausting local recruitment options can companies turn to international workers for employment.

The municipality set an ambitious goal to raise the employment rate from the current 68.8% to 80%.

Local authorities emphasize that the initiative is designed to benefit those already part of the community, particularly unemployed individuals.

The city's approach is seen as a response to growing economic challenges and aims to balance the needs of the local labor market with the presence of international talent in Genk.

Through these measures, local leaders aim to ensure that economic benefits are prioritized for residents while maintaining a fair and equitable work environment for all.