Dutch pension funds are “intensifying their communication” as more move to the new pension system set out in the Future Pensions Act (Wtp), according to a report by the Dutch Federation of Pension Funds (Pensioenfederatie).

The third-of-its-kind report, Dialogue and Communication regarding the Transition, was presented by Pensioenfederatie to the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment. It follows two earlier editions in Summer 2025 and Winter 2026.

Part of the report summarised two different pension fund approaches to communication during the transition, undertaken by PFZW and Flexsecurity. Both schemes switched to the new scheme in 2026, but the report noted how their “divergent characteristics” led to distinctly different approaches.

PFZW implemented a phased communications strategy, supported by behavioural science insights, to help members prepare for the conversion of €252bn in pension assets. The campaign included animations, regional meetings and intensive monitoring, while its 'Heb je even voor jou' initiative reached more than 3.2 million people.

Meanwhile, Flexsecurity adopted a predominantly digital approach, using email, intranet and e-learning to engage its younger and more transient membership. The strategy proved effective, with 80 per cent of participants saying they understood the changes, exceeding the scheme's target.

According to Pensioenfederatie chairman, Ger Jaarsma, this shows that pension funds are “taking major steps, each in their own way”.

The report also detailed three sector-wide themes relating to communication: employer communication, communication regarding compensation for the abolition of the average salary system, and communication regarding the new survivor's pension.

Firstly, employers are proving to be a key link in reaching and supporting members. Pension funds are assisting them with newsletters, ready-made content, toolkits, on-site information and, in some cases, physical materials.

Secondly, the report noted that clear expectation management is essential in communications around compensation linked to the abolition of the average salary system, as it depends on individual circumstances and the fund’s financial position at the time of transition.

This is supported through calculation examples, online tools and personalised communication.

Finally, the new survivor’s pension requires explanation across multiple target groups, Pensioenfederatie said. As members rarely raise questions proactively, funds are embedding the topic more broadly in communications via websites, videos and thematic content.

The report concluded that simplicity, repetition, and targeting are important for structuring communication as effectively as possible.

“Participants must feel that their pension is in good hands, even during the transition. Clear communication is indispensable for this,” Jaarsma stated.

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