Belgium forms new nationalist-led government

Belgium's new government was officially formed on Monday. This marks a historic moment as N-VA leader Bart De Wever becomes the first Flemish nationalist prime minister.

Belgium's new government was officially installed on Monday, nearly eight months after the Flemish nationalist N-VA party won the election. N-VA leader Bart De Wever becomes the first prime minister from a Flemish nationalist party, marking a historic moment for the country.

After months of tense negotiations, five parties reached a broad majority coalition agreement on January 31. The coalition focuses on economic reforms aimed at improving Belgium’s financial situation, including budget cuts, tax hikes, and pension adjustments. Key policies include limiting unemployment benefits, reducing pensions for early retirees, and introducing a new capital gains tax while removing certain tax exemptions.

The coalition, led by N-VA, includes Christian Democrats and socialists from the Dutch-speaking north, along with liberal and centrist parties from the French-speaking south.

Later today, De Wever will make his first international appearance as Belgium's prime minister, meeting with EU leaders in Brussels to discuss defense against Russia and trade relations following U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China.

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