Brussels mediators concluded their mission on Friday by asking seven parties to decide by Monday evening on forming a coalition government.
There is a broad consensus to advance with reforms, particularly to address the unprecedented budgetary challenges in the Brussels Region, and to collaborate with the federal government on various issues.
Over the past three weeks, the two mediators conducted more than 40 meetings with political actors in Brussels, and numerous informal contacts. They described this as a “step back to better outline potential solutions.”
The option of a minority government was explored but faced opposition from several parties. Even those open to the idea cited stability concerns. “Our political and economic situation demands stability, which requires a majority in Parliament and in both linguistic groups. A minority government does not have enough support, especially given the necessary reforms,” stated Mrs Van den Brandt and Mr De Beukelaer.
Vetoes against a plan based on reviving the outgoing majority could not be overcome.
The mediators propose a coalition of liberal, socialist, centrist, and Groen parties. This coalition would hold a majority in both linguistic groups and in the Brussels parliament.
“We have clearly heard concerns about this scenario: loyalty to the federal government and a genuine desire for reform. We have secured necessary guarantees from all parties on these points,” they explained.
