Social policy in Belgium
(2026) The Oxford Handbook of Belgian Politics — ISBN: [9780198914754], p. 547-562, published
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- Abstract
- This chapter examines Belgium’s social security system, which is the cornerstone of its welfare state and a key issue in national politics. Representing a very significant share of public expenditures, it has been vital for social corporatism, poverty alleviation, and political stability. Although it has been gradually adapted to shifting social, economic, and demographic conditions, the system has so far largely avoided major reforms. Today, amidst rising public debt, changing political dynamics, and community tensions, it is a focal point of political conflict. Section 1 briefly reviews the history of the system and indicates how it is nowadays structured and financed. Section 2 explores its main components, namely health care, child benefits, pensions, unemployment benefits, incapacity for work, and minimum income, highlighting major developments and challenges. Section 3 addresses broader debates, focusing on key issues that have shaped political and academic discussions over the past two decades. The chapter concludes by reflecting on Belgium’s evolving welfare state.
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Vanderborght, Y., Dumont, D., Cantillon, B., & et al. (2026). Social policy in Belgium. In Min Reuchamps (ed.), Marleen Brans (ed.), Petra Meier (ed.), Emilie van Haute (ed.) (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Belgian Politics (p. p. 547-562). Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780198914754.013.0033