As the end of the First World War is commemorated this Armistice Day (11 November), defence union SLFP-Defence has urged the future Federal Government not to weaken Belgium's defence forces "in the current geopolitical climate."
While soldiers who died during the war are remembered, SLFP-Defence union president Chris Huybrechts has warned that an "unprecedented threat" looms over the future of the country's current military.
"The upcoming political coalition, tasked with ensuring national security and well-being, seems determined to sabotage Defence's renewal efforts," the union said on Monday.
"Instead of supporting ongoing transformation, this coalition plans to critically undermine our armed forces by ignoring the escalating threats to our national and international security and implementing thoughtless measures," it added.
Weak defence spending
Last year, Belgium invested just 1.21% of its GDP (gross domestic product) in defence, making it the second lowest spender among NATO countries behind Luxembourg.
Political leaders in Belgium have recognised the need to ramp up defence spending. Outgoing Prime Minister Alexander De Croo (Open VLD) has suggested cutting social spending to reach NATO targets, while current federal formator Bart De Wever (N-VA) has called for increased defence spending, particularly in air defence systems at the Port of Antwerp.
Union President Huybrechts warned that it is "imperative" that Belgium's defence forces be strengthened "before it is too late." He noted specifically that any moves to alter the status of defence personnel could cause "irreversible damage."
The SLFP-Defence union issued a solemn appeal to policymakers to "strengthen rather than weaken the operational capacities of our Defence and its personnel."
"Honouring fallen soldiers also means respecting those who continue to serve," the union emphasised on Armistice Day.
Armistice Commemorations today
Hundreds of members of veterans' associations and children from different provinces are commemorating Armistice Day at the Federal Parliament in Brussels on Monday.
They, along with King Philippe, will attend an official ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which represents all those who fought and died during the First World War.
Wreaths from the Senate and the House of Representatives will be laid in memory of the victims of both world wars and military personnel who have died on peacekeeping or humanitarian missions since 1945.
In the afternoon, children and veterans will participate in a commemorative activity at the House of Representatives and the Senate.
