Human Rights Institute Warns of Social Rights Cutbacks

The Federal Institute for the Rights of Man (FIRM) has issued a strong warning regarding the Belgian federal government's economic reforms, asserting that they are leading to an erosion of citizens' social rights. The institute specifically points to changes in unemployment benefits, provisions for the long-term sick, and the pension system as areas of concern.

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The current government is dismantling the social rights of citizens.

According to FIRM Director Martien Schotmans, these reforms risk dismantling social rights that have been painstakingly built up over many years by previous generations. Schotmans invoked the European Social Charter's "standstill" principle, which prohibits the reduction of social rights without justification, and Article 23 of the Belgian Constitution, which guarantees a dignified standard of living for all citizens. "When we see the measures being taken, we must ask ourselves whether this dignified standard of living is still guaranteed for everyone," Schotmans stated.

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When we see the measures being taken, we must ask ourselves whether this dignified standard of living is still guaranteed for everyone.

FIRM is urging the government to conduct a thorough impact analysis of these reforms. Schotmans stressed that if the government aims to mobilize people back to work after long-term illness, it must demonstrate that these measures effectively reduce poverty. The institute also expressed regret over the frequent use of accelerated parliamentary procedures, which limit the Council of State's review period to just five days. This rushed approach, used for legislation like the law to return long-term sick individuals to work, bypasses the necessary societal debate and expert consultation required for such significant changes.

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There is a need for societal debate to create support for such measures. That takes time.

Furthermore, FIRM highlighted the importance of assessing the cumulative impact of multiple reforms on individuals. For instance, someone receiving unemployment benefits might face heavier taxation and a limited duration of payments. "This cumulative impact must be thoroughly studied," Schotmans urged. A 2025 FIRM study indicated that 4 out of 10 Belgians are concerned about the decline of social rights, underscoring the public's apprehension about the government's direction.

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Someone with an unemployment benefit is more heavily taxed and that benefit is limited in time. This cumulative impact must be thoroughly studied.