News

N-VA after audit of long-term sick leave: “Figures defy all imagination”

13 April 2026

The N-VA has reacted with shock to a leaked study by Belgium’s National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (RIZIV/INAMI) on long-term incapacity for work. A sample audit by inspectors found that health insurance funds had been too generous in granting benefits: more than half of the long …

Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt on deterrence mission in Congo: “Our asylum system is not meant for economic migrants”

13 April 2026

Belgium’s Minister for Asylum and Migration, Anneleen Van Bossuyt, is on her first official visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo—and not without reason. The country currently ranks among the top three nationalities applying for asylum, alongside Afghanistan and Palestine. While around 1,250 …

Government opens door to tackling illegal criminals

3 April 2026

The federal government has approved, on second reading, the draft law on home entry, Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt announced. The bill gives the police and the Immigration Office (DVZ) greater scope to apprehend people residing illegally who have a criminal profile. In …

After 20 years, finally a return agreement with Algeria

1 April 2026

After two decades of diplomatic efforts, the federal government has achieved a historic breakthrough in migration policy: Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt announced on De Ochtend a new return agreement with Algeria. “A credible migration policy depends on effective return,” …

Van Overtveldt on rising interest rates: “Financial markets have confidence in De Wever’s reforms”

28 March 2026

Belgium’s long-term interest rate reached its highest level in 14 years this week, a development that must be closely monitored. In De Ochtend, Johan Van Overtveldt, chair of the Budget Committee in the European Parliament, explains that tensions in the Middle East are creating uncertainty and …

Refusal of reception for those already granted protection remains possible after Council of State ruling

27 March 2026

“The refusal of reception for people who have already been granted protection in another EU Member State remains possible. However, the Council makes clear that each decision must be better justified and assessed on an individual basis.” Federal Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van …

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