Statement on the Belgian federal government negotiations

Our country needs reforms and investments to ensure a prosperous future Everyone understands the need to balance the budget, but thinking only in terms of austerity is playing with fire. Austerity policies that lead to a recession are an expensive mistake. While pensions must be reformed to remain sustainable and a fair tax reform with lower labor taxes is essential, we must not forget the other side of the coin: investing in growth, sustainability, and innovation. Only then can we truly move forward.

Take the Draghi report: a clear wake-up call. Europe is falling behind. While economic growth thrives in the United States and China, we remain stuck. Without massive investments, we risk losing our prosperity. The climate transition and green growth are not obstacles but levers for success. Investing in clean energy, the circular economy, and smart infrastructure creates jobs and progress while securing a healthier, more livable future.

Smart reforms, bold investments
Reforms don’t have to be painful—on the contrary. Look at the four-day workweek, tested in Ireland and the United Kingdom. With unchanged salaries and shorter workweeks, companies report a slight increase in productivity. Even more impressive: burnout cases dropped by 71%, and sick days by 65%. In Belgium, 9% of workers were absent due to illness every day in the first half of 2024. That’s an immense cost for our social security system. If a shorter, healthier workweek is possible, why not try it? Fewer sick days, more well-being, and net savings: that’s smart reform.

Reforming also means cutting unnecessary regulations and bureaucracy. Simplifying procedures not only makes life easier but also gives businesses and citizens the room to grow and innovate. Removing excessive administrative burdens—“cutting red tape”—is a logical step toward greater efficiency.

Stronger Together: European Cooperation Is Key
Greater European cooperation and shared investments are vital to improving efficiency and securing our future. Only by working together can we tackle challenges like the climate crisis and economic stagnation. At the same time, we must avoid counterproductive measures like border controls, recently proposed by countries such as the Netherlands and Germany. These policies not only harm our economy but also undermine the free movement that Europe stands for. Cooperation isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Public transport: more than just savings
The same goes for public transport. The drastic cuts currently on the table for trains are a disaster waiting to happen. It’s not just ecologically counterproductive but also economically shortsighted. Good public transport pays for itself. Every kilometer traveled by train or bus is cheaper for society than one traveled by car. Fewer traffic jams, less air pollution, and better accessibility. This isn’t an expense; it’s an investment that delivers.

Choose a future that inspires
Our country deserves better than a policy that stands still. Reforms are necessary, but without investments, it’s like bailing water out of a sinking ship. Green growth and the climate transition don’t just address today’s crises; they lay the foundation for a vibrant economy tomorrow. What we need now is courage. The courage to invest in what matters. The courage to not only save but to build. For a future that inspires.