Belgian royal household ordered to cut 6 million euros by 2029
Belgium’s monarchy has been instructed to contribute to federal budget savings, with an expected reduction of 6 million euros by 2029. The monarchy costs taxpayers almost 44 million euros annually, meaning the final reduction equates to around 4.6 per cent.
According to Mediahuis news outlets, the royal endowments themselves will remain untouched. Instead, the Palace will have to absorb the cuts through its operating budget. This equates to 1 million euros less in both 2026 and 2027, rising to 2 million euros per year in both 2028 and 2029.
The Palace has already taken the first steps, saving €220,000 for 2025. Despite earlier plans, the Royal Palace in Laeken did not reopen to the public this summer, retaining 200,000 euros in revenue. Some cultural purchases were cancelled, saving 15,000 euros, and a small subsidy to the Prince Laurent Foundation was cut by 5,000 euros. Consequently, the savings target for the first year has effectively been reduced.
Federal services
The majority of the additional savings will come from the federal services that support the monarchy, particularly security. This has grown by almost 37 per cent over the past four years due to increased wages, energy costs, overtime, and upgrades to the vehicle fleet. While accepting the need for restraint, the Palace maintains that safety cannot be compromised.
Royal incomes themselves remain untouched. King Philippe’s Civil List and the allowances of Albert II, Princess Astrid and Prince Laurent will continue to increase automatically, while Crown Princess Elisabeth has waived hers during her studies.
© BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE
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