Belgian nationalist Bart De Wever was sworn in as prime minister on Monday, marking a significant shift to the right for the country. After seven months of intense negotiations, a coalition deal has been reached, with De Wever’s N-VA party forming part of a hard-right group at the European Parliament.
De Wever has pledged to crack down on irregular migration and push for cuts in social benefits and pension reforms. His rise to power reinforces a marked right-wing shift in European politics. The 54-year-old had previously backed off calls for Flanders independence, taking a more centrist stance before the election.
In his first talks with EU leaders, De Wever emphasized Belgium’s commitment to NATO’s defense spending target of 2% of GDP. He also stressed the need to preserve the relationship with the United States amidst President Donald Trump’s policies.
De Wever’s new government brings together three parties from Dutch-speaking Flanders and two from French-speaking Wallonia, holding an 81-seat majority in Belgium’s parliament. However, critics have raised concerns over the gender makeup of the new cabinet, with only four women out of 15 members.
This marks a significant departure from previous governments, which had taken longer to form. The negotiations were particularly grueling, lasting just hours before an agreement was struck after a 60-hour marathon session.
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20250203-belgium-appoints-conservative-bart-de-wever-as-new-prime-minister