Belgium faces potential government standstill over 2026 federal budget

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever could submit his resignation to King Philippe this Thursday after failing to reach an agreement on the kingdom’s €10 billion federal budget for 2026, which includes €1 billion in aid to Kyiv, Echo reports.

According to available information, due to the lack of consensus among the ruling political forces, De Wever intends to report to the king on Nov. 6, after which his resignation could follow.

However, before that, another attempt will be made today to secure approval for the budget.

“The federal government will convene at noon on Monday in a limited format to resume work on the budget. Prime Minister Bart De Wever is expected to present a new proposal to his deputies following individual meetings with them last week,” the media outlet noted.

The federal government must agree on next year’s €10 billion budget but has so far been unable to reach consensus on sources of funding. De Wever insists on cutting healthcare and social security spending, and, in particular, significantly reducing unemployment benefits.

At the same time, other government parties are proposing higher taxes on the wealthy.