Belgium
| Belgium | |
|---|---|
| |
| Type | Country |
| Key terms | geography & climate; governance & economy; culture & history |
| Related | Netherlands; Luxembourg; European Union |
| Examples | Regions: Flanders; Wallonia; Brussels-Capital |
| Domain | Europe; Countries |
| Wikidata | Q31 |
Belgium (officially the Kingdom of Belgium) is a small, densely populated country in Western Europe. It is a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a population of about 11.8 million (2025) and an area of roughly 30,700 square kilometers. Belgium is bounded by the Netherlands to the north, Germany and Luxembourg to the east, France to the south, and the North Sea to the northwest. Its capital and largest city is Brussels, which also serves as the de facto capital of the European Union; Brussels hosts major EU institutions and the headquarters of NATO. Belgium has three official languages (Dutch, French, and German) and a rich cultural heritage. It is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, NATO, and many international organizations. This combination of a strategic location, a developed economy, and a complex federal system makes Belgium a notable European country despite its small size.
Geography and Climate
Belgium lies in the coastal lowlands of Northwestern Europe, a region often called the Low Countries. Its landscape is generally flat or gently rolling, rising gradually from sea level to the hills of the Ardennes in the southeast. The western edge of Belgium is a narrow north–south strip of coastline on the North Sea, characterized by windblown sand dunes and reclaimed polder lands. Moving inland, the terrain levels out into broad fertile plains crisscrossed by rivers and canals. The central and northern parts of the country (Flanders) consist of flat farmland and thickly settled cities, while the southern third (Wallonia) includes higher plateaus and the wooded Ardennes hills, which reach up to 694 meters at the Signal de Botrange, the country’s highest point.
Belgium’s river systems all drain toward the North Sea. Major rivers include the Scheldt (Escaut) and the Meuse (Maas), which flow northward through important cities (Antwerp on the Scheldt, Liège on the Meuse) and then into the Netherlands. Smaller rivers like the Sambre and the Lys (Leie) also help irrigate the landscape. Because of a low-lying coast and many waterways, flood management and dikes are important in the northern provinces.
The climate is temperate and maritime (Köppen Cfb), similar to neighboring countries. Belgium has mild winters and cool summers, with average January lows around 3°C and July highs around 18°C. Rainfall is well distributed throughout the year, so no definite dry season occurs. The coast tends to be windier and wetter, while summers in inland areas are slightly warmer. Overall, Belgium receives ample precipitation (often rain rather than snow) from Atlantic weather systems. Climate change is gradually making Belgian winters wetter and summers warmer, with rising sea levels projected to affect the flat North Sea coastline. Belgium has committed to reducing greenhouse emissions and reaching net-zero carbon by 2050 in response to these climate challenges.
History
Belgium’s history is one of crossroads and shifting borders. The area was inhabited in prehistoric times (Neanderthals and later Celtic tribes known as the Belgae) before being incorporated into the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, the region was broken into many feudal lordships (such as the counties of Flanders, Brabant, Namur, Hainaut, and the Bishopric of Liège). In the 15th century, these territories largely coalesced into the Burgundian Netherlands, later inherited by the Spanish Habsburgs. For centuries Belgium’s cities (notably Bruges, Ghent, and later Antwerp) were wealthy centers of trade and cloth manufacturing.
After wars of religion and a lengthy struggle, the northern Dutch provinces split away in the 16th–17th centuries, but the southern part (roughly modern Belgium) remained under Spanish, then Austrian Habsburg rule. In 1795 during the French Revolutionary Wars, the region was annexed by France. After Napoleon’s defeat in 1815, the Congress of Vienna united Belgium with what is now the Netherlands as the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. Belgian discontent with this union (especially over religion, language, and political rights) led to the Belgian Revolution of 1830–31. In October 1830 a provisional government declared independence, and in 1831 Leopold I became the first King of the Belgians, founding a new nation.
In the 19th century Belgium became one of the first industrialized countries on the continent, with coal mining and steel in Wallonia and commerce and textile industries in Flanders. Under King Leopold II (r. 1865–1909), Belgium acquired colonial territories in Africa, most notably the Congo Free State (1885–1908). This period is infamous for extreme exploitation: millions of Congolese reportedly died or were mistreated under Leopold’s rule. In 1908 the Belgian state took over the colony (renaming it Belgian Congo), which remained a Belgian possession until Congolese independence in 1960. Belgium also administered the territories of Rwanda and Burundi (Ruanda-Urundi) until they became independent nations in the early 1960s.
The 20th century was turbulent. Belgium declared neutrality but was invaded and occupied by Germany in both World War I and World War II. In 1914 Belgium’s fierce resistance against the German advance became legendary, though much of the country was devastated. In World War II Belgium was quickly overrun in 1940. Both wars fostered a sense of national unity but left deep scars. After 1945 Belgium recovered and entered a period of economic growth. It worked closely with its neighbors, forming the Benelux Union (with Netherlands and Luxembourg) and later becoming a founding member of the European Coal and Steel Community (1951) and the European Economic Community (Treaty of Rome, 1957) — precursors to today’s European Union.
Internal conflicts arose over language and economic disparities. The country has two main language communities: Dutch-speaking in the north (Flemish) and French-speaking in the south (Walloon), plus a small German-speaking minority in the east. Over time these differences led to extensive constitutional reforms. Starting in 1970, a series of federalization reforms devolved powers to Regions (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) and to Language Communities. By 1993, Belgium’s constitution formally converted it from a unitary state into a fully federal state. Nevertheless, political debates continue — for example, Flemish nationalist parties have periodically called for greater autonomy or even secession, and coalition governments often take months to form due to the need to balance linguistic interests.
Government and Politics
Belgium is a constitutional monarchy headed by King Philippe (since 2013). The monarchy today is mostly ceremonial: the King formally appoints the Prime Minister and federal government, and ratifies laws, but real executive power lies with elected officials. The federal Prime Minister (as of early 2025, Bart De Wever) leads a multi-party cabinet. Belgium’s bicameral Federal Parliament consists of the Senate (upper house) and the Chamber of Representatives (lower house), though most legislative work is done in the Chamber.
Belgium’s political system is notable for its complexity. The state is divided into three regions (Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region) and three language communities (Dutch/Flemish, French, and German). Each level – federal, regional, and community – has its own government and parliament for different matters. For example, education and cultural affairs are handled by the language communities, while roads and economic policy are often regional, and foreign relations and defense are federal. This arrangement reflects the country’s linguistic diversity: about 60% of Belgians speak Dutch (Flemish) as their first language, about 40% speak French, and roughly 1% speak German.
Belgium has a multi-party system. The traditional major parties have split along community lines (e.g. Flemish Socialists and Walloon Socialists, separate Liberal and Christian Democratic parties in each language). In recent decades, new parties have emerged: Green parties are strong in both Flanders and Wallonia, and Flemish nationalist parties (like the N-VA) are influential in Flanders. Coalition governments are the norm; Belgium’s proportional representation rarely gives a single party a majority. Governments must balance French-speaking and Dutch-speaking interests, often requiring broad coalitions with carefully negotiated compromises (for example, constitutional changes require special majorities ensuring both communities agree).
Belgium is a highly developed democratic state. It participates actively in European and international affairs. Brussels, by hosting EU and NATO institutions, is an important diplomatic center. Belgium’s currency is the euro, and it is part of the Schengen Area (open borders in the EU). In domestic policy, Belgium has comprehensive social security, universal health care, and free education, reflecting its status as a high-income welfare state. However, its political structure means that reforms often require agreement across multiple levels of government, which can slow decision-making. Periodically, national elections result in lengthy periods without an active government (the record was nearly 18 months in 2010–11) until coalition agreements are reached.
Demographics
Belgium’s population is about 11.8 million (early 2025). It is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe (around 380 people per square kilometer). The population is unevenly distributed: Flanders (the Dutch-speaking north) is more populous than Wallonia (the French-speaking south), and the Brussels region is also highly urbanized. As of 2024 roughly 58% of Belgians live in Flanders, 31% in Wallonia, and 11% in the Brussels region. Major cities include Brussels (about 1.2 million in the city proper, 1.7 million metro), Antwerp (about 0.5 million), Ghent, Liège, Charleroi, Bruges, Leuven, and Namur.
Belgium has a relatively high standard of living and good social infrastructure. Life expectancy is around 82 years (2023 estimate), and the country has a low infant mortality rate. The population is aging slowly — about 18% are over age 65. Belgium’s fertility rate is under replacement (about 1.5 children per woman), as in much of Europe, but modest immigration and naturalization have helped sustain population growth (a 2024 estimate gave an annual growth around 0.5%). Urban areas have most of the population, but ethnic diversity is widespread. About 36% of Belgians (2025) have a foreign background (immigrants or their children) Significant immigrant communities include people of Italian, Moroccan, French, Dutch, Turkish, Polish, Spanish, German, Congolese, and Portuguese descent, among others. Brussels is especially diverse, with large numbers from other EU countries and beyond.
By language, roughly 60% of Belgians speak Dutch (Flemish) as their native language, and about 40% speak French natively The tiny German-speaking minority (around 1%) lives in the eastern border region of Wallonia. In the Brussels region, both Dutch and French are official, but French is dominant (often over 85% of residents in daily practice). English is widely spoken as a second language, especially in Brussels and business circles.
Religiously, Belgium has become largely secular. Historically a Catholic-majority country, church attendance has declined dramatically. As of early 2020s surveys, roughly 30% of Belgians identify as Catholic, about 5–7% as Muslim, and another few percent as Protestant or Orthodox. A majority (over half) of Belgians consider themselves non-religious or atheist The government guarantees freedom of religion, and religion and state are officially separate.
Economy
Belgium has a highly developed, open economy. GDP (nominal) is on the order of $680–700 billion (2025), making it one of the world’s largest economies per capita. Services dominate the economy (roughly 75–80% of GDP and employment), including finance, logistics, healthcare, and public administration Industry and manufacturing remain important across the country (about 20–25% of GDP), especially in areas like chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing (notably beer and chocolate), metal products, and diamonds. Agriculture is a minor sector (less than 1% of GDP) but highly efficient; Belgium is known for its dairy, poultry, sugar beets, and horticulture. The World Bank classifies Belgium as a “high-income” economy with an advanced social welfare system.
Belgium’s central location in Europe and its excellent transport infrastructure give it a major trade advantage. The Port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s busiest ports (second only to Rotterdam), handling huge volumes of goods. Belgium also has major airports, highways, railways, and inland waterways, integrating it with continental markets. More than two-thirds of Belgium’s GDP comes from international trade. Key exports include chemical products (pharmaceuticals, plastics), machinery and equipment, finished diamonds (a specialty of Antwerp), metals, and foodstuffs Important imports are raw materials, machinery, chemicals, oil products, and food. About 75–80% of trade is with other EU countries. Belgium was a founding member of the E.U. and generally supports further economic integration in Europe.
Public finance and employment: Belgium offers generous social services (about 29% of GDP in social spending Its unemployment rate is relatively low (around 5% in recent years, though youth unemployment is higher). The standard of living is high: per capita income is among Europe’s top ranks (nominal around $58,000, 2025). On the other hand, public debt is sizable (over 100% of GDP), a common issue in advanced economies. Belgium uses the euro as its currency (since 1999) and its banking sector is well-developed. The education and health sectors are robust, and labor productivity is generally high — Belgium regularly ranks high in human development indices.
Regional disparities exist: Flanders has the higher-income, export-oriented economy, while Wallonia historically lagged behind after the decline of coal and steel. The Brussels region is service-heavy and also benefits from international organizations. Nevertheless, cross-border commuters and inter-regional trade bind the economy together, and both governments work to reduce disparities through federal funding.
Culture
Belgian culture is rich and diverse, reflecting its mix of Germanic (Flemish) and Latin (Walloon) influences. Large cities like Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent are cultural centers with world-famous museums, architecture, and festivals. Notably, Belgium has produced many renowned artists and writers. In painting, the 15th–17th centuries saw the Flemish Masters: Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Peter Paul Rubens profoundly influenced European art with their realism and storytelling. In modern times, surrealist painter René Magritte is internationally celebrated. Belgium also boasts famous composers (e.g. César Franck, Eugène Ysaÿe) and architects (Victoir Horta’s art nouveau buildings in Brussels are UNESCO sites).
Belgium has a strong tradition of comics and literature. The comic “Tintin” by Hergé and “The Smurfs” by Peyo are globally popular creations. Belgian filmmakers like the Dardenne brothers have won international awards. The country has several UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites, including historic city centers (Grote Markt of Bruges and Brussels) and the Grand-Place in Brussels.
Cuisine is a prominent part of Belgian culture. Belgium is especially famous for chocolate, waffles, fries, and an astonishing variety of beers Traditional dishes include moules-frites (mussels with fries), Flemish beef stew (carbonade flamande), and Belgian endive salad. Belgian breweries produce thousands of distinct beers (lambics, Trappist ales, saisons) widely enjoyed and exported. Food and beer are celebrated in local festivals and markets year-round.
Folklore and festivals are important too. For example, the Carnival of Binche and its Gilles (costumed performers) is a centuries-old tradition; the Ommegang pageant in Brussels reenacts medieval courtly life; and giant puppet parades occur in cities like Ath and Antwerp on various saints’ days. Belgians also enjoy folk music, carnivals, and fireworks. Sports play a strong cultural role: cycling is a national passion (with legendary cyclists like Eddy Merckx), and football (soccer) is widely followed — Belgium’s national team (“the Red Devils”) has been a top-ranked side.
Belgium has multiple national holidays (July 21, National Day, commemorates Leopold I’s inauguration), and each region/community has its own flag and symbols (e.g. the Flemish Lion, the Walloon Cock). Despite the linguistic divide, many Belgians feel a shared identity as “Belgian” for sporting events or international affairs. The arts are supported broadly: the country has many theaters, orchestras, and art schools in each language community. In education and daily life, Belgians are often multilingual, typically speaking at least one other national language and English. Finally, Belgium is known internationally for its progressive social policies: it was the second country in the world to legalize euthanasia (2002) and one of the first to allow same-sex marriage (2003), reflecting a generally liberal social climate.
Environment
Belgium’s environment faces the challenges typical of a densely populated, industrialized nation, but the country has taken significant steps toward protection and sustainability. About one-quarter of Belgium’s land is forested (notably in the Ardennes) Wildlife corridors and nature reserves have been established to improve biodiversity. Five national parks exist as of the early 2020s (including Hoge Kempen in Flanders and several newly designated parks in Wallonia and Flanders) Protected natural areas include coastal wetlands (the Zwin near Knokke), the Fagne-Famenne valleys, and the Hoge Kempen heathlands, among others. Many wetlands and forests are part of the EU-wide Natura 2000 network.
Belgium is active in renewable energy and recycling. The country has one of Europe’s highest recycling rates: for example, the Flemish region recycles or recovers over 98% of municipal waste (far above the EU average) Waste sorting and composting are widely practiced. Energy production is mixed: Belgium historically relied heavily on nuclear power (about half of its electricity) along with natural gas, imports, and some renewables. In recent years, offshore wind farms in the North Sea and solar projects have been added. Belgium had laws planning to phase out nuclear power by the mid-2020s, but newer governments are reconsidering extending nuclear operations and building new reactors to ensure clean energy supply.
Air quality in Belgium is generally acceptable but can suffer from traffic pollution and industrial emissions, especially in winter. The country has also been working to improve water quality: nearly all wastewater is treated, and Belgium’s rivers and beaches are closely monitored. Because of past industrial use (especially in Wallonia), some soil and water pollution issues remain in older industrial zones, but cleanup efforts are under way.
Climate change poses particular risks to Belgium: average temperatures have already risen (nearly 2°C since pre-industrial times heatwaves and heavy rainstorms are becoming more frequent, and growing seasons have lengthened. Rising sea levels – projected to reach 60–90 cm by 2100 – threaten the low-lying coast if protective dikes are not continuously maintained. The estimated economic costs of climate impacts (flooding, heat damage) run into the billions of euros per year by mid-century. In response, Belgium (as part of the EU) has set emissions targets and is investing in climate adaptation. In 2023, Belgium’s greenhouse emissions were about 9.1 tonnes per capita above the EU average, so reducing carbon output is a national priority. Belgium participates in international agreements (Kyoto, Paris) and the EU Emissions Trading System, and each region has its own targets for renewable energy and efficiency.
Despite these challenges, surveys rank Belgium among the top nations for environmental awareness and policies in Europe Cities like Ghent and Antwerp are promoting bike lanes and green urban spaces. Overall, the country balances industrial development with green initiatives: for example, Belgium aims for nearly 100% wastewater treatment and sets high standards for air quality and soil use. Its flat terrain and high population density make sustainability a constant concern, but public and private efforts (recycling, protected parks, and clean energy programs) show significant progress toward a cleaner environment.