Belgian government faces crisis over budget failure

Belgium has entered a period of political uncertainty following the collapse of negotiations between government partners regarding the federal budget. Prime Minister Bart De Wever is expected to visit the royal palace on November 2, 2026, to tender his resignation to King Philippe after an emergency cabinet meeting (Kern) ended without a consensus shortly after midnight.

The central point of contention was a requirement to secure approximately 10 billion euros by 2029 to curb the national fiscal deficit and ensure long-term economic sustainability. Despite the Prime Minister presenting new proposals during marathon sessions, the coalition partners failed to reach an agreement, which risks plunging the country into a deeper political crisis.

King Philippe now holds the authority to decide the next steps. He may either formally accept the resignation or request that De Wever continue efforts to find a compromise, potentially setting a new deadline for the coalition members. While some partners maintain that a deal is still achievable, the current impasse has effectively halted the government's legislative progress.