After seven months of negotiations, Bart De Wever has formed a coalition government, shifting Belgium’s political landscape further to the right.

On Monday, the Flemish nationalist leader took the oath of office before King Philippe, marking a historic moment in Belgian politics.

De Wever is the first nationalist from Flanders to hold the prime ministerial post. His N-VA party leads a five-party coalition with centrist Christian Democrats, leftist Vooruit, the francophone Reformist Movement, and Les Engagés.

De Wever Pushes for Regional Autonomy

De Wever has moderated his past calls for Flemish independence but remains committed to decentralising power from the federal government.

His administration plans to grant Belgium regions greater control, particularly in monitoring job seekers and managing economic policies.

He also wants Belgium’s ten provinces to play a more active role in international diplomacy and trade.

Despite his regionalist ambitions, De Wever faces potential opposition from coalition partners who are less eager to weaken federal authority.

Coalition Agreement Reflects Rightward Shift

The government deal, reached after a 60-hour negotiation marathon, aims to reduce social spending, reform pensions, and streamline labour policies.

De Wever threatened to withdraw from talks unless parties agreed to spending cuts and pension overhauls, drawing criticism from labour unions.

His stance on immigration aligns with many EU leaders, whom he met on Monday, just hours after taking office.

Belgium’s new government is expected to control the state deficit while harmonising public and private pension schemes, marking a clear shift to the right.