The Flemish Association Coordination Centre (OVV) has urged the leaders of the French-speaking parties in Belgium’s federal government to support a comprehensive reform of the state.
According to the OVV, deep reform is essential for Belgium’s chances of success, which aims to prepare Flanders for independence. The organisation includes nationalist groups across various political spectrums.
The coordination centre suggests that regions like Wallonia and Flanders be given greater control over taxation, healthcare, labour markets, and social security. With this autonomy, they argue, regions can set their own priorities and implement policies that meet local needs. This is seen as the only way for Wallonia to thrive and match the economic contribution of Flanders.
The association emphasises that the Flemish movement desires a prosperous Wallonia, stressing the importance of encouraging entrepreneurship. It claims that the Socialist Party opposes reform because it’s the foundation of their electoral success.
The OVV expresses hope that the ruling parties in Wallonia will support these reforms. It insists any overhaul must include confederalism as a fundamental element to prevent efforts being undone by 2029.
The government agreement indicates that Prime Minister Bart De Wever will prepare legislative proposals on how powers, funding, and institutions are shared. This effort will be supported by constitutional specialists and experts from both linguistic groups.
