2024 was marked by uncertainty and upheaval, with tensions rising around Europe and new challenges emerging within the Union. At the heart of this, Belgium has been rocked by elections that left the country without a government to act on policy decisions.
2025 will be a pivotal year for Europe as it seeks stability and security in a changing global order. The Brussels Times has asked industry experts what developments they foresee and how life in Belgium will be affected.
Caroline SĂ€gesser is a leading Belgian political scientist and university professor at the French-speaking political think tank, the Centre for socio-political research and information (CRISP).
What is the biggest political challenge for 2025?
Assuming we are talking about Belgium, the first challenge will be to set the âArizonaâ government properly on tracks, and the second to get it to work, and to work better and more efficiently than its predecessor.
The Vivaldi coalition will go down in history as a government whose actions were paralysed by tensions among parties.
Judging by the atmosphere that prevails during negotiations prior to the formation of the government, it's to be feared that the government headed by Bart De Wever, if it comes into being, will not be a coherent, cohesive and efficient team either.
What are the prospects in your sector?
Well, 2025 should be a quieter year for political scientists who had to analyse the results of 5 different elections in 2024.
But we canât rule out completely a major political and institutional crisis should Arizona negotiations fail, which could lead to a political stalemate and new elections.
What does Belgium most need to improve?
We all know that Belgium has to put her public finances in order. As a political scientist, I would say that Belgium needs to improve collaboration between the different entities â Regions, Communities, the federal state.
As a private citizen, I would venture to say that train services need to be improved.
Will things get better or worse?
I donât have a crystal ball, but I'm going to be optimistic and point out that the fact that the president of the largest Flemish party, who dreams of seeing Flanders become independent, has decided to become Belgium's Prime Minister, is a good omen.
How will this impact households?
The austerity measures that the government is preparing to introduce will have a negative impact on household budgets. Let's hope that Europe does not experience a new crisis in the coming year.
What are the biggest opportunities/developments to watch for?
The new government is expected to conduct a pro-business policy, actively seeking new investments.
