Volt Belgium calls for Reforms in line with Draghi Report

Press release - Brussels, September 9-10, 2024: Volt Belgium urgently calls on the federal and regional government formateurs to show courage and decisiveness. The party refers to the Draghi report, which calls for sweeping reforms to revitalize the European economy. Without swift action, Europe risks losing ground in terms of prosperity, freedom, and the environment, Draghi warns.

"Belgium cannot lag behind," warns Carlo Giovanni Giudice, Co-Chair of Volt Belgium. "Draghi's message is even more relevant for our country. The negotiations for the federal and Flemish governments are stalling, and the economic situation is deteriorating. We see declining productivity, companies relocating, and a lack of much-needed investments. This is not the time for half-hearted measures. Belgium needs substantial reforms."

The party specifically points to recent reports about Audi's departure and the uncertainty surrounding chip manufacturer BelGaN as examples of an economy on its last legs. The Arizona coalition's [the intended new coalition of N-VA, CD&V, Vooruit, MR, Les Engagés] austerity plans are dismissed as "completely unrealistic" and unable to bring about the necessary structural improvements.

Sophie in ’t Veld, former Member of the European Parliament and lead candidate for Volt Europa, echoes the call:
"This is the moment to choose vision over party-political games. We need strong, progressive reforms to make Belgium and Europe future-proof. The date of October 13 should symbolize political leadership, not political cowardice."

Volt Belgium emphasises that the future of the country and Europe depends on the ability to let go of entrenched structures and ideologies and advocates for bold reforms that benefit both the economy and the quality of life of citizens.

END OF PRESS RELEASE

What is Volt?
Volt Belgium is the national chapter of Volt Europa — the pan-European political movement, with 200+ elected local officials in towns, cities and national parliaments. Five newly elected Members of the European Parliament including Damian Boeselager, founder of Volt in 2017. Across 30+ countries, Volt has 24.000+ members and hundreds of local teams, including Volt Brussels, Volt Tervuren and Volt Leuven.

Volt's vision is that of a progressive Europe with a democratically elected European government, a socially just society, an economy that nurtures our climate and positive digitalization.

Contact
Bianca Baumler
Volt Belgium, Media Officer
[email protected], +32 4 89 61 86 30