Belgian PM Bart De Wever offers government’s resignation after 2027 budget talks collapse

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever offered his government’s resignation to King Philippe on Monday after overnight talks within his five-party coalition failed to produce an agreement on the 2027 budget.

The king did not immediately accept the resignation, instead putting his decision on hold. The Royal Palace said Philippe would begin consultations with the leaders of the coalition parties on Tuesday and receive De Wever again on Friday.

The “Arizona” coalition has been deadlocked for months over a package of around €10 billion in spending cuts and tax increases intended to bring Belgium’s public finances closer to EU requirements by 2029.

De Wever’s N-VA and the liberal MR have pushed for deeper spending cuts, while socialist and centrist coalition partners have demanded a larger contribution from higher earners and wealth.

“The country cannot afford a prolonged political crisis,” the palace said, citing geopolitical uncertainty and economic challenges and urging all sides to prioritize compromise and the general interest.

Belgium recorded a budget deficit of 5.2% of GDP in 2025, while public debt stood at 108.1% of GDP. The European Commission expects debt to rise further this year.

If the king ultimately accepts De Wever’s resignation, Belgium could move toward a caretaker government, negotiations for another coalition or potentially new elections.