More than seven months after the June 2024 elections, a coalition government has been formed, led by nationalist Bart De Wever.

De Wever has been sworn in as Belgium’s new prime minister after prolonged negotiations, shifting the government further to the right.

He is the first nationalist from Dutch-speaking Flanders to lead the country.

His five-party coalition includes the Flemish nationalist N-VA, centrist Christian Democrats, leftist Vooruit, francophone centre-right Reformist Movement, and centrist Les Engagés.

Once a strong advocate for Flemish independence, De Wever has softened his stance in recent years.

On Monday, he took the oath before King Philippe, a figure he has long criticized for representing Belgian unity.

Political scientist Pascal Delwit called De Wever’s rise “surreal,” as he now leads the very federation he once opposed.

De Wever aims to decentralize power, giving more autonomy to Belgium’s regions and provinces.

He also wants provinces to have a stronger role in diplomacy and international trade.

His coalition partners may resist his push for regionalism, Euro News has reported.

The agreement came after a 60-hour negotiation marathon.

De Wever had threatened to withdraw if no deal was reached, demanding social benefit cuts and pension reforms opposed by labor unions.

Written by B.C. Begley