European Commission calls for stricter integrity policy in Belgium

The Commission has been emphasizing for years the need to strengthen the integrity of the political system in Belgium. However, it must once again note that the reform of lobbying legislation is still pending, as are new rules to combat so-called revolving door politics, for example through binding cooling-off periods for ministers and cabinet members.

In addition, staff shortages and the duration of procedures remain a concern for the Belgian rule of law. The Commission acknowledges that Belgium has made some efforts in recent years, but both the budget for justice and the number of judges per 100,000 inhabitants remain below the European average.

Belgium, which has only had a new government since January, is not the only country that stagnated in the past year. The 27 member states have fully implemented only 18 percent of the 2024 recommendations, or at least made “significant progress.” Two years ago, that figure was still 25 percent. For 43 percent of the recommendations, the Commission recorded “no” or “limited progress.”

“We need to keep a close eye on that,” acknowledged European Commissioner for Justice Michael McGrath at a press conference. However, he also warned against drawing conclusions based on just one year. According to the Irishman, “the low-hanging fruit” has been picked, and many member states now face “structural reforms that require more time.”

In the meantime, this is the sixth time the Commission has produced an annual report on the rule of law in all member states. In these times of political polarization and pressure on democratic institutions, it seeks to map out the state of crucial pillars of democracy, such as the independence of the judiciary, the fight against corruption, and media pluralism.