In view of the planned state reform in 2024, Ministers for Institutional Reforms David Clarinval and Annelies Verlinden will be setting up a ‘dialogue platform on the future of Belgian federalism’. This can be read in their policy memorandum.
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The De Croo government intends to work out a new state structure in which the distribution of powers must become more homogeneous. Following the example of the conference on the future of Europe – postponed due to the corona crisis – there will be a broad survey among citizens (especially young people), civil society, experts and local authorities. The House is asked to experiment with new forms of citizen participation, such as mixed panels of members of parliament and citizens.
The activities of the Dialogue Platform will revolve around several themes. Working groups will be set up to gather existing expertise and evaluate the distribution of powers.
Provisional constitutional articles
Timing remains vague. The activities will start ‘as soon as possible’, it says in the bill. A provisional list is drawn up of constitutional articles that must be declared open to revision. By the end of 2021, a report with the platform’s recommendations must be submitted to the government and the list of articles can be supplemented. A consultation of political representatives is finalized ‘on time’.
Furthermore, ministers will prepare reform proposals and establish contacts to find “additional parliamentary support” to “create the necessary majorities”. Revisions to the constitution require a two-thirds majority, special laws require a two-thirds majority, and a majority in any language group.
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