Brussels pushes back on federal unemployment reform
Brussels authorities have triggered a conflict of interest procedure to delay the federal government’s contentious unemployment reform. However, questions over the legality of the move have quickly followed.
Brussels employment minister Bernard Clerfayt (DéFI) announced that the United College of the Common Community Commission (COCOM), composed of Brussels government ministers, had decided to trigger the procedure, which would suspend the federal vote for 60 days and would force intergovernmental consultations. The Brussels authorities want the reform (which limits unemployment benefits to two years) postponed by at least six months, citing major concerns for local welfare offices (OCMWs), which they say risk being overwhelmed without extra funding or coordination.
But the United College’s authority to file such a procedure has come under scrutiny. CD&V parliamentarian Benjamin Dalle argued that the body is not legally competent to launch a conflict of interest - only the United Assembly, the legislative arm of COCOM, can.
Brussels minister Elke Van den Brandt (Groen/Greens) defended the decision, citing legal advice and noting the federal government had failed to deliver promised consultations.
Meanwhile, DéFI also filed a separate conflict of interest motion Friday in the French Community Commission (Cocof), backed by PS, Ecolo, and PVDA. A vote is expected later in the day. DéFI argues the reform ignores Brussels’ unique labor market challenges and would undermine training pathways and local services.
The federal government had aimed to pass the reform before the summer recess, linking it to a broader package that includes a capital gains tax. It was set to apply from 1 January 2026 for those unemployed over 20 years, with phased expansion from March and April.
For now, with both procedural objections and political opposition mounting, the reform is effectively paused.
Brussels region flag with the Belgian and EU flag © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK