The Brussels region, which has been without a functioning city government for over 600 days, has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of Belgium’s political system. Prime Minister Bart De Wever highlighted this issue in a recent interview, noting that the prolonged political deadlock is damaging the country’s international reputation. He stated that wherever he travels, he faces questions about the chaos in Brussels, underscoring the urgent need for institutional reform in the region.

The political crisis began after the June 2024 elections, which did not yield a clear winner, leading to a stalemate among parties that have failed to form a coalition government. The situation is exacerbated by Brussels' complex institutional structure, reflecting its status as Belgium’s only bilingual region. This has hindered political negotiations and contributed to the ongoing government absence, which affects governance and local administration.

As Brussels is home to approximately 1.2 million residents, the lack of a city government has significant implications for the day-to-day functioning of the region. Residents are likely facing challenges in local services and governance, which could further fuel discontent and calls for reform. The situation poses a critical question for Belgium’s political future, particularly about how effectively the government can address not only local issues but also overarching institutional challenges that are evident in Brussels’ political landscape.