Belgian citizens cast their votes for a new parliament while also participating in the European elections.
The Belgian federal parliament is divided due to most parties only competing in the northern Flanders, the Brussels-Capital region, or the southern French-speaking Wallonia. This means that social democrats, greens, liberals, and christendemocrats from various regions occupy the Chamber of Representatives, not always sharing the same views.
Belgium's De Croo government is a coalition of social democrats, greens, liberals, and christendemocrats. On the day of his vote in Brakel's municipality, the Prime Minister urged for more reforms and efforts to create jobs. "We're better off now than we were before the crisis," he declared.
Vlaams Belang could acquire up to 26 of the 150 seats in the Chamber of Representatives and potentially become the majority party. They advocate for Flanders' independence and propose ending social benefits for immigrants. "Belgium's history is gone; the future belongs to Flanders," declared party leader Tom van Grieken during his vote. "The Flemish people need a government that's Flemish and right-wing."
Acknowledging a nationwide government alliance with the Vlaams Belang seems unlikely, as other parties have rejected the prospect of a partnership. The far-left Belgian Labor Party (PTB-PVDA) is also projected to win 19 seats, yet they deny any intention of government participation. Together, these parties could account for nearly a third of the new parliament.
The process of forming a government may add to the complexity. Rumours suggest that the De Croo Liberals and Greens might suffer losses, making it more challenging for the Prime Minister to remain in power for an additional five years. He may require support from the Walloon Christian Democrats or the right-wing Flemish Alliance (N-VA) to stay in the post.
Following the 2019 election, the coalition in Belgium required 493 days to form. Experts warn that the existing nine-month record set in 2010 for the longest time between election day and the new government's taking power may be eclipsed.
In addition to the national parliament, regional chambers held elections in Belgium on Sunday. 8.5 million citizens were encouraged to cast their votes. Contrary to Germany, voting isn't optional in Belgium.
