King Philippe urges focus on the “common good” in Christmas message

Belgium’s King Philippe has used his Christmas message to call for renewed focus on the “common good”. He cited the war in Ukraine, difficult budget talks and Brussels’ stalled government formation as signs of growing strain on solidarity.

Speaking from the Royal Palace in Laeken, the King said that working for the common good allows people to “live together with dignity and security, in a healthy and fair world, even when this requires difficult choices.”

He highlighted several areas where he believes this shared responsibility is under pressure.

At a global level, the King said protecting the planet remains essential. Although the recent climate conference in Belem did not meet all expectations, he stressed that “the international community continues to commit itself to the climate.”

In Europe, he called peace the continent’s “most precious common good”, now threatened by “brutal domination in Ukraine”. Belgium, he said, will continue to support the Ukrainian people firmly and resolutely. He added that “debates over frozen Russian assets do not change that commitment”. He further urged European countries to remain united and not allow themselves to be divided.

“The measures taken must help restore public finances while protecting the country’s social model and prosperity”

Turning to Belgium, King Philippe referred to the federal budget negotiations. “The measures taken must help restore public finances while protecting the country’s social model and prosperity”, he said. He noted that there is no single or simple solution, but that solidarity must “continue to benefit those who need it most”.

The King also delivered a sharp message to Brussels’ political leaders. He criticised the “unreasonably long” government formation, now lasting more than 560 days. He said many Brussels residents who work hard for the common good feel discouraged and abandoned, and he called on negotiators to “finally reach an agreement in the interest of the people”.

The speech ended with a call for unity: in difficult times, the King said, taking care of the common good strengthens society as a whole.

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