106 and counting…

106 days after the Belgian elections and Belgium is still without a government. There has been no clear sign that the chasm in policy intentions between the Flemish and Walloon Christan Democrats and Liberals over state reform are any closer to being resolved.

Senior Flemish Christian Democrat Herman Van Rompuy was appointed some weeks ago to try and find a way forward. Van Rompuy was appointed to the new position of Negotiator Royal by King Albert and its expected that he is due to complete his work shortly – without a final resolution being proposed. The Flemish press are suggesting that the King will appoint a new Walloon negotiator to take things forward from this stage.

The ongoing tension has fuelled speculation in a possible split in Belgium between Flanders and Wallonia. According to recent polling the Flems are relatively comfortable with a possible parting of the ways whereas the Walloons are firmly against the prospect.

The Flemish parliament has returned to session with Kris Peeters, the Flemish Prime Minister, carrying out the ‘State of the Nation’ address. He stressed the need for the greater state reform and devolution of power which the Flemish negotiators have been seeking in the Belgian negotiations. He also emphasised the need for a “visionary, ambitious and international Flanders”.

Apparently the record for Belgium being without a government following protracted negotiations was some 6 months. We’re only 3 months in at this stage and if the Flemish press is to be believed it isn’t nearly over yet.