Local governments in Belgium

Abstract

This chapter examines the distinctive features of local government in Belgium’s multilevel political system. Focusing on intergovernmental and intra-governmental relations, it explores how local governance has evolved since federalization processes in 2001 devolved the bulk of relevant competencies to the regions. Belgian local governments reflect supralocal governance levels by embodying characteristics such as consensual democracy, the influence of national parties, and a dominance of executive over legislative power. The distinctiveness of local politics emerges through features like the widespread presence of local party lists, a greater reliance on preference voting, and the persistence of single-party majorities. The federalization of the competencies on local governments meanwhile prompted divergence in the political and administrative organization of municipalities across the regions. However, recent developments suggest a partial re-convergence in certain aspects (e.g. the semi-direct election of the mayor, municipal funding mechanisms, and voluntary municipal mergers).