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Tom Huisjes will defend his dissertation on inclusive procurement, on 23 May 2025 at Utrecht University. The full Dutch title of his dissertation is: "Naar een inclusief aanbestedingsbeleid binnen de sociale markteconomie". This study explores the possibilities and limitations of social procurement, analysing current legislation and regulations

Inclusive procurement: a powerful tool for social change

Public procurement – the way governments acquire goods and services – is no longer just about the lowest price. Increasingly, it is being used to promote social objectives, such as reducing inequality and improving labour conditions. This approach, known as social procurement, aligns with key UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as decent work (goal 8) and reduced inequalities (goal 10).

In Europe, procurement law has traditionally focused on fair competition and transparency. However, legal reforms have led governments to consider social factors more actively, such as excluding companies that violate labour laws or creating jobs for vulnerable groups. In the Netherlands, for example, Social Return on Investment (SROI) has become standard policy, requiring companies awarded public contracts to generate social value, for instance by employing people who face barriers to the labour market. Yet, broader inclusion and diversity considerations in procurement are still in their early stages.

This dissertation explores the possibilities and limitations of social procurement, analysing current legislation and regulations. The City of Amsterdam serves as a practical case study, illustrating how local governments can implement social procurement effectively and where challenges arise. Legal uncertainties and economic interests can sometimes clash with social objectives, while existing European laws limit the extent to which governments can impose social criteria on businesses.

This research advocates for making certain social criteria mandatory, expanding opportunities to integrate social factors into procurement, and clarifying legal frameworks. Social and inclusive procurement has the potential to reshape markets and advance social justice. By adapting legislation and procurement practices, governments can leverage public spending as a powerful force for positive social change.

The dissertation will be published by Boom Juridisch.