Belgium

Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a federal parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy located in Western Europe. Bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, and with a short coastline along the North Sea, it occupies a strategically central position in Europe. With a population approaching 12 million (2024), Belgium is among the most densely populated and urbanised countries in Europe. Its capital, Brussels, serves as a global diplomatic hub, hosting the headquarters of the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Historical Background

Belgium’s historical evolution reflects its location at the crossroads of Western Europe, which has exposed it to diverse cultural and political influences. In antiquity, the area was inhabited by Celtic tribes known as the Belgae, later incorporated into the Roman Empire. Following Rome’s decline, the territory came under Frankish rule before becoming divided among regional powers such as Spain, Austria, and France in subsequent centuries.
Modern Belgium emerged after a revolution in 1830, when the southern provinces of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands revolted against Dutch rule. Independence was declared that same year, and the following year King Leopold I became the first monarch under the 1831 Constitution, establishing Belgium as a constitutional monarchy.
The nation’s geographic location made it a central battleground during both World Wars. In World War I, Belgium’s neutrality was violated by Germany in 1914, leading to severe devastation. During World War II, German forces again occupied Belgium from 1940 to 1944. Post-war reconstruction and the pursuit of European unity led Belgium to become a founding member of NATO (1949) and the European Coal and Steel Community (1951)—the precursor to the EU.
Domestically, Belgium’s governance evolved in response to deep linguistic and regional divisions. The Dutch-speaking Flemish in the north and French-speaking Walloons in the south have distinct cultural identities, while a small German-speaking community resides in the east. Constitutional reforms throughout the late twentieth century transformed Belgium into a federal state in 1993, consisting of three regions (Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels-Capital) and three linguistic communities (Dutch, French, and German).
Today, Belgium remains a stable democracy and a key member of international organisations, balancing internal linguistic diversity with a strong commitment to European integration.

Geography and Environment

Location: Western Europe, bordering the North SeaCoordinates: 50°50′N, 4°00′EArea: 30,528 sq km (similar in size to Maryland, USA)Borders: France, Germany, Luxembourg, NetherlandsCoastline: 66.5 kmClimate: Temperate maritime; mild winters, cool summers, frequent rainfallTerrain: Coastal plains in the northwest, rolling central plateaus, and the rugged Ardennes Forest in the southeastHighest point: Signal de Botrange (694 m)Natural resources: Arable land, silica sand, limestone, and building materials
Belgium’s favourable geographic position and transport infrastructure make it a European trade and logistics hub, with major ports at Antwerp and Zeebrugge. However, intensive agriculture, urban sprawl, and industrialisation have led to environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, flood risks, and habitat fragmentation. Belgium is a strong advocate of climate action and a signatory to the Paris Agreement.

People and Society

Population (2024): 11.98 millionUrbanisation: 98.2% (2023)Median age: 42 yearsLife expectancy: 82.3 yearsEthnic composition: Belgian 75.2%, Italian 4.1%, Moroccan 3.7%, French 2.4%, Turkish 2%, Dutch 2%, other 10.6%Languages: Dutch (60%), French (40%), German (<1%)Religion: Roman Catholic 57.1%, Muslim 6.8%, Protestant 2.3%, others/non-religious 33.8%
Belgium is one of Europe’s most urbanised nations, with nearly all residents living in cities or suburban areas. Flanders, the northern region, is economically dynamic and export-oriented, while Wallonia, the southern region, has undergone post-industrial restructuring. The Brussels-Capital Region, officially bilingual, is among the most international cities in the world, hosting numerous EU institutions and multinational corporations.
The country has a universal healthcare system, high public spending on education (6.4% of GDP), and one of Europe’s most educated populations. Multiculturalism and multilingualism are defining aspects of Belgian identity, contributing to its cosmopolitan social fabric.

Government and Politics

Government type: Federal parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchyCapital: BrusselsHead of State: King Philippe (since 2013)Head of Government: Prime Minister Bart De Wever (since February 2025)Legislature: Federal Parliament—bicameral, consisting of:

• House of Representatives (150 seats)
• Senate (60 seats)

Belgium’s governance is characterised by power-sharing among linguistic communities and regions. The federal government manages national concerns such as defence, foreign affairs, and social security, while regional and community governments oversee education, culture, transport, and environmental policy.
Elections occur every five years, with compulsory voting for citizens aged 18 and above. The 2024 general election produced a fragmented parliament, with the New Flemish Alliance (N-VA), led by Bart De Wever, emerging as the largest party.
The judiciary is independent, with the Constitutional Court and the Court of Cassation serving as the highest authorities. Belgium’s complex yet functional political model exemplifies federal compromise and democratic pluralism.

Economy

Belgium maintains a high-income, export-oriented economy and is among the most integrated members of the EU single market.
GDP (PPP): US$749.2 billion (2024)GDP per capita (PPP): US$63,100 (2024)GDP growth: 1.0% (2024 est.)Unemployment: 5.5%Public debt: 92.5% of GDP (2022 est.)Inflation: 3.1% (2024 est.)
The services sector accounts for over 72% of GDP, with major strengths in finance, logistics, healthcare, and information technology. Industry contributes 17.6%, and agriculture less than 1%. Belgium’s economy is export-driven, supported by advanced transport infrastructure and a skilled workforce.
Major industries:

• Chemicals and pharmaceuticals
• Machinery and metal products
• Automotive assembly
• Food and beverage processing
• Textiles and glass manufacturing

Key exports: refined petroleum, vaccines, automobiles, pharmaceuticalsMain trade partners: France, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and the United States
Belgium’s economic challenges include slow productivity growth, high public expenditure, and an ageing population, but it retains strong fiscal credibility and innovation capacity. Its port of Antwerp ranks among Europe’s largest, consolidating Belgium’s role as a logistics and trade gateway.

Energy and Infrastructure

Belgium’s energy profile reflects a transition toward sustainability while maintaining advanced grid integration.

• Nuclear power: 40% of capacity (four operational reactors, 2025)
• Wind and solar: 29% combined
• Fossil fuels: 24%
• Electricity consumption: 74.5 billion kWh (2023)
• CO₂ emissions: 112 million metric tonnes (2023)

The government aims to gradually reduce nuclear dependency and expand renewable energy, particularly offshore wind farms in the North Sea. Belgium plays a pivotal role in the EU’s cross-border electricity and gas networks, functioning as both an importer and exporter of energy.

Defence and Security

The Belgian Armed Forces consist of Land, Naval, Air, Medical, and Cyber Components.

• Active personnel: approximately 23,000 (2025 est.)
• Military expenditure: 2% of GDP (2025 est.)

Belgium’s security strategy emphasises collective defence through NATO and the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). The country hosts NATO Headquarters in Brussels and contributes to international peacekeeping and stabilisation missions. It is part of the Benelux Defence Cooperation with the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Women constitute about 11% of active military personnel. Cybersecurity and hybrid threats have become growing priorities within national defence planning.

Culture and Society

Belgium’s cultural identity reflects a blend of Flemish, Walloon, and Brussels traditions, producing a rich artistic and culinary heritage. The country is renowned for its Renaissance art, Art Nouveau architecture, and modern surrealism—notably through artists Peter Paul Rubens and René Magritte.
National symbols:

• Flag: Black, yellow, and red vertical tricolour
• Emblem: Golden rampant lion
• Anthem: La Brabançonne (The Song of Brabant)
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 16, including Bruges’ historic centre, Brussels’ Grand Place, and Victor Horta’s Art Nouveau townhouses

Belgium’s cultural exports—chocolate, beer, and waffles—are globally recognised, while its film, fashion, and comic art (notably Tintin and The Smurfs) contribute to its soft power. Festivals such as Tomorrowland and Carnival of Binche highlight its vibrant modern culture.

International Role

Belgium is a founding member of both the European Union and NATO, reinforcing its identity as a core state in European integration and transatlantic cooperation. It plays active roles in the United Nations, OECD, World Trade Organization, and the Benelux Union.
Brussels’ position as the “capital of Europe” gives Belgium significant influence in shaping policies on climate change, trade, defence, and human rights. The country promotes multilateralism and diplomacy, serving as a mediator in international negotiations and a hub for global governance.