After nearly eight months of political deadlock, Belgium has officially sworn in its new government led by Bart De Wever, marking the end of extensive coalition negotiations and setting the stage for significant political reshifts. The ceremony took place on February 3, 2025, at the Royal Palace in Brussels, with De Wever heading the New Flemish Alliance (N-VA) coalition of five parties.
This formation follows the parliamentary elections of June 2024, where the N-VA secured their position. Known for his previous role as mayor of Antwerp, De Wever's ascent to the prime ministership signifies not only the first time a Flemish nationalist has taken the lead of the Belgian government but also gives insight to shifts within Belgian political boundaries.
The newly formed coalition comprises three Flemish parties—the N-VA, the Flemish Liberal Reform Party, and the Flemish Socialist Party—alongside two French-speaking parties: the Liberal Reform Movement and the Humanist Democratic Centre. This delicate configuration results in 81 out of the 150 parliamentary seats being held by the coalition, indicating both strength and significant political balancing.
Central to the negotiations were socio-economic reforms aimed at tackling Belgium’s long-standing economic issues, which include addressing a rapidly increasing budget deficit predicted to reach 4.6% of GDP by 2024. The coalition's policy program outlines ambitious plans to reduce state expenditures, implement social welfare reforms, and tighten immigration policies.
Key emphases of De Wever’s agenda signal notable transformations, particularly concerning Belgium's stance on Israel, which had been perceived as one of the most antagonistic among European nations under the former government. De Wever's government has committed to neutral positions on sensitive geopolitical matters, bolstering longstanding critiques of antisemitism. Michael Freilich, Member of Parliament and special envoy on antisemitism, noted this change saying, “This government presents a more balanced and even positive position toward Israel,” a sentiment echoed by many observing the new political dynamics.
Freilich expressed cautious optimism, stating, “I see a real opportunity to improve relations with Israel and open a new chapter,” as the new government not only promises legislative changes but also symbolizes hope for reconciliation within the international community.
Equally significant is the anticipated tightening of immigration policies, with proposed reductions to welfare benefits for migrants and stricter criteria for asylum seekers. These reforms have met criticisms and sparked concerns over potential societal backlash, reminiscent of previous political shifts across Western Europe.
Political analysts and local pundits like La Libre Belgique view the coalition as offering Belgium “a unique chance to fundamentally reform the country.” Yet, skepticism remains about the potential for internal conflict among coalition partners who come from diverse ideological backgrounds. Observers question whether this alliance can sustain cohesive governance without succumbing to inherent political frictions.
The background of the coalition’s formation, spanning several months of rigorous negotiations, highlights Belgium’s complicated political environment and the broader ideological fissures within the nation. The previous government under Liberal Prime Minister Alexander De Croo faced increasing dissatisfaction reflected through significant losses during the last elections, underscoring the call for change.
The new government has boldly declared its position against unilateral recognition of Palestine, cementing tighter relations with groups opposing such actions and enhancing defense budgets to counter concerns about internal and external security challenges. This pivot indicates more than just policy adjustments; it suggests a strategic repositioning of Belgium within broader European and international frameworks.
De Wever’s leadership style, reportedly embodying more centrist and conciliatory approaches than his earlier outspoken populist stances could imply changes—in some instances, to appease leftist parties or quell labor union dissatisfaction looming post-reforms.
Belgium’s multi-party system presents inherent challenges to the stability and longevity of this new coalition. The last time the country underwent such lengthy government formation was during the 2010-2011 crisis, where it operated for 541 days without formal governance. The memory of this instability haunts political analysts and citizens alike, reminding them of the fragility of coalition dynamics.
De Wever’s priority remains maintaining fragile national unity, balancing Flemish ambitions for autonomy with the pressures from Walloon constituencies wary of increased Flemish nationalist agendas. His coalition could become either the bastion of reform or the start of new societal fractures, depending on how policies are enacted and perceived by the wider populace.
One notable aspect is the conclusion of the official transition between the previous Prime Minister and the new, with De Wever expected to outline his government’s full agenda to the Parliament and address lawmakers on the coalition's commitment to tackling pressing economic reforms head-on.
For many, the swearing-in of Bart De Wever is not merely the onset of another government but symbolizes the potential for Belgium’s complex political narrative to evolve. Can this partnership stabilize the nation?Will it yield fruitful policies to confront the looming economic challenges? Only time will tell as this new chapter of governance begins to script itself amid both challenges and aspirations.