Belgium Country Report

Belgium is a democratic parliamentary monarchy. The country does not face a significant risk of political instability, and it maintains friendly relations with its neighbors. Belgium is a driving member of the EU, NATO and the UN as well as other international organizations. There is an elevated terrorist threat. Hundreds of Belgian nationals are currently fighting alongside the Islamic State (IS) and extremist networks operate in the country. Explosions at Brussels airport and metro in March 2016 highlight the risk of coordinated terrorist attacks. IS continues to call for self-generated attacks using edged weapons and vehicle-rammings against security forces and civilians. Authorities continue to launch counter-terrorism raids across the country. Additional police officers are deployed across major cities, specifically at transport hubs. Protests and strikes can lead to transport and service delivery disruption. Most protests occur in Brussels and near government buildings. Demonstrations can turn violent as radical left-wing activists clash with police. Criminal activity, outside some specific urban areas, is not a major concern for travelers. Petty crime (pickpocketing and purse snatching) does occur in major cities and train stations. Roads and public transportation are excellent. Medical facilities are of a high standard.

Belgium does not face any threat of internal or external conflict. There is a threat of terrorism against tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, hotels, schools, places of worship and airports and other transportation hubs. Sunni extremists are likely to continue to use Belgium as territory to plan operations in Europe. Radical Islamist militants will probably continue to try to conduct attacks in the country. Petty crime occurs in major cities and on public transportation. Demonstrations occur and have the potential to turn violent.

Air travel is safe and in compliance with international safety standards.

Roads are very well maintained and local authorities closely monitor it. Travel within the country is safe and does not face any outstanding issue.

The ports are considered efficient in Belgium.

The local critical energy infrastructure is monitored by federal authorities. Energy supplies are available nationwide.

There are increasing concerns over the threat from cyber attacks as Belgium is considered to have low cyber security.

The climate in Belgium does not generate any substantial operational or safety risks. However, periodic storms can lead to temporary travel and service disruptions, especially June-November. Heavy rains periodically result in localized floods. Higher than normal temperatures sporadically increase health and safety concerns during the summer months.

High-quality medical facilities are widely available, and the large university hospitals can handle almost every medical situation. Private hospitals are of high quality and available nationwide. Medical care is extensively available and there are no concerns in regard to the acquisition of pharmaceuticals.

Belgium is a federal multi-party parliamentary constitutional monarchy. The Prime Minister is the head of government, and the monarch is the head of state. The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers form the federal government and exercise executive power. The parliament consists of the Chamber of Representatives (lower house) and the Senate (upper house) and exercises legislative power. Some powers fall within the remit of regional and local governments. Federal and regional elections take place once every five years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses occasionally take place. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.