Whilst voting systems elsewhere concentrate power in the hands of a few – or even just two – political parties, the proportional representation structure in Belgium creates a fertile space for diverse interest groups to take root. Added to this the regional particularities served by separate parties and we end up with an unusual breadth of representatives who align and diverge on different levels and topics.
The current "Vivaldi" Federal Government is testament to the range of views that can coexist within a coalition and also the basic necessity to compromise in order to form a governing majority in Belgium.
But the cards are about to be tossed into the air again and parties are now vying for votes as June approaches. Where politicians of different hues might usually promote their openness to negotiate with colleagues in other parties, they now are seen setting out their differences and stressing where they stand apart from the rest.
For those of us still wondering where francophone liberals DéFI differ from francophone centrists Les Engagés, or why some movements have separate French and Dutch language strands whilst others unite under a single banner, you will appreciate a concise overview of the main parties in Belgium, complete with a summary of key figures and policies.
The side-by-side comparison will be helpful in the coming weeks, and most likely the weeks that follow the 9 June election and a government is formed. However long that takes...
Belgium in Brief is a free daily roundup of the top stories to get you through your coffee break conversations. To receive it straight to your inbox every day, sign up below:
1. Belgian elections guide: What Belgium's parties stand for
Seven political parties are in the current Belgian government coalition, while more will compete in the June 9 elections. The Brussels Times parse the history and manifestos of each to explain who they are and what they want. Read more.
2. Filing taxes online possible from today: What to know
People living in Belgium can file their tax returns online from Wednesday. This year, several system changes have been made to further simplify the process. Read more.
3. Sportive socialising: Where to exercise as an expat in Brussels
From hiking across Belgium's beautiful countryside to ultimate frisbee in Brussels' Parc de Woluwe, there is a sports group for everyone in the Belgian capital. Read more.
4. Recognition of Palestine: Belgium distances itself from Spain
Belgium declined to attend the latest meeting led by Spain on recognising Palestine, according to the country’s Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib. Read more.
5. 'Take this seriously': Significant improvements in Brussels air quality but lives still at risk
Despite costing thousands of lives every year, air pollution remains under-discussed in political circles, leading to calls from health specialists and citizens' organisations to push it up the political agenda. Read more.
6. No more 'Good Living'? The ambitious policy to transform Brussels in political danger
A policy that aims to improve the quality of life of Brussels residents is at risk of not being passed in this legislature, which could seriously postpone measures coming into force. Read more.
7. The art and events to look out for in Brussels and beyond
The Brussels Times selects some of the best exhibitions currently on show in museums and galleries. Read more.
