In February 2025, Belgium ushered in a new federal government. Bart De Wever, leader of the Flemish nationalist N-VA party, is now prime minister — the first time someone from his political background has held the post. The ruling coalition includes a mix of parties with differing priorities, and they have already laid out an ambitious agenda.
– Reversing the Nuclear Phase-Out
In a bold move, the Belgian Parliament voted in May 2025 to reverse the earlier plan to gradually shut down nuclear power plants. The decision is rooted in energy security concerns — especially in a world of supply disruptions and climate instability. It signals a shift in how Belgium will balance carbon goals, reliability, and economy.
– Health Crisis: E. coli Outbreak
Amid this political change, Belgium is grappling with a serious public health concern. A recent outbreak of STEC (a strain of E. coli) has claimed the lives of eight people across care facilities in Flanders and Wallonia. Authorities are scrambling to find the contamination source as dozens more have fallen ill.
– Transport Turbulence
On October 14, Brussels Airport and major rail services are expected to be disrupted by nationwide union strikes. Workers are pushing back against proposed austerity measures and changes to social benefits — a reminder that economic strain is influencing daily life for Belgians.
– Tightening the Purse Strings
Starting January 1, 2026, Belgium will tax capital gains at a rate of 10% on assets like stocks and crypto. The government says the move will help fund necessary reforms in pensions, migration policy, and defense — but it’s stirring debate among investors.
Why This Is Serious — But Not Hopeless
This isn’t just another political shuffle or isolated newsflash. Together, these developments point to a pivot point for Belgium. The country is testing new strategies to deal with energy, health, social welfare, and economics — all at once.
The stakes are high. Missteps in any one area could ripple across Belgian society — but strong leadership and smart decisions could turn this into a period of renewal.
What to Watch Going Forward
1. Outbreak Control – Will health authorities trace the E. coli outbreak to its source quickly and prevent further spread?
2. Energy Strategy – How will Belgium integrate nuclear power, renewables, and emissions goals in this changing energy landscape
3. Social Reaction – With strikes brewing and reforms underway, public sentiment will matter — can the government balance change with stability?
4. Economic Impact – The capital gains tax, labor reforms, and benefit adjustments will test public finance and investment confidence.
5. Coalition Cohesion – With diverse parties in government, internal friction is possible. The government’s ability to stay united will be critical.
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