What the federal government has decided
The Belgian government has agreed on a broad plan for reforms. Those reforms should make the economy more competitive, and in the longer run should be beneficial for public finances. Most aspects need the approval of Parliament, while some of the measures will be finalised in consultation with the social partners.
Belgian government starts National Day with socio-economic reforms
The federal government reached its summer agreement at around 4.00 on Monday morning, 21 July, Belgium’s National Day. Senior ministers negotiated all night on a series of socio-economic reforms.
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Pensions
- The official age of retirement in Belgium is 66, rising to 67 in a couple of years. However, many civil servants can stop much earlier. This will change.
- People who work longer will be rewarded more People who stop before the official age, will lose part of their pension allowance.
- If people are ill or unemployed during their career, this will affect their allowance, but to a lesser extent than today.
Labour market
- Social protection has made the Belgian labour market inflexible. To address this, there will be more possibilities for night work and overtime.
- To push more people to work, a tax reduction will be implemented, making sure the net wage is higher
Healthcare
- A first step is taken in the reform of the financing of healthcare. The financial relationship between hospitals and doctors will be revised. There will be a cap on what doctors can charge their patients.
Brussels police
- The planned merger of the six police corps in Brussels was also on the agenda again. This will be implemented in the coming years.
Rue de la Loi 16, the office of the Belgian PM © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE