Belgium Tightens Focus on Labour Migration

Belgium’s migration policy is again attracting attention, with the country’s migration minister calling for stronger controls at the European Union’s external borders. Anneleen Van Bossuyt is expected to push for a greater role for Frontex and stronger measures to control irregular migration at EU level.

In Flanders, authorities are also moving toward stricter rules and higher fees for labour migration from outside the European Economic Area. Flemish minister Zuhal Demir said labour migration should primarily address jobs for which suitable workers cannot be found locally, highlighting specialised occupations and highly skilled positions.

Belgian Brewers Challenge Proposed Alcohol Advertising Warning

Belgium’s brewing industry is facing a dispute over proposed changes to health warnings on alcohol advertising. Brewers are objecting to a planned alteration to the wording of the warning, arguing that even a small change could have consequences for how alcoholic products are promoted.

The issue forms part of wider Belgian public-health measures aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm. The government’s proposal would require alcohol advertising to carry a health warning, putting the brewing sector and public-health authorities at odds over the wording and implementation of the measure.

Belgium and Rwanda Restore Diplomatic Relations

Belgium’s decision to restore diplomatic relations with Rwanda remains an important foreign-policy development. The two countries announced the restoration of ties on September 22 after an 18-month diplomatic rupture connected to disagreements surrounding the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The development comes as Belgium participates in the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Belgian officials have been emphasizing multilateral cooperation, maritime security, freedom of navigation and respect for international law during the UNGA discussions.

Belgium Seeks UN Agency Secretariat for Brussels

Belgium is actively campaigning to have the secretariat of the international agreement on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction established in Brussels. The campaign is part of the country’s diplomatic activities during the 81st UN General Assembly.

The initiative would strengthen Brussels’ position as a centre for international diplomacy and institutions dealing with global environmental and maritime issues.

Federal Government Advances Economic and Energy Measures

Belgium’s Council of Ministers held a meeting on September 25 and approved several measures covering the economy, energy, transport, social affairs and public administration.

Among the decisions was the continuation of preparations to transfer responsibility for the Belgian Gambling Commission to the Federal Public Service Economy. The government also approved measures concerning the High Council of Finance and appointments of government commissioners to the boards of Fluxys and Elia.

The government additionally approved a reference scenario for future capacity-remuneration auctions, an important element of Belgium’s electricity-market and energy-security framework.

New Measures Affect Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles

The federal government also approved changes concerning driving and rest-time rules for certain hydrogen- and electrically powered vans. The measure modifies existing regulations concerning tachographs and driving periods.

Another decision concerns the implementation of rules surrounding reintegration training linked to road-traffic and driving-licence legislation.

Belgium Advances Antibiotic Pricing Reform

Belgium’s federal government has approved, at second reading, changes related to the dispensing and pricing of oral solid antibiotics. Under the reform, antibiotics are to be priced according to treatment units rather than simply as complete packages in community pharmacies.

The measure is part of wider efforts to improve the way antibiotics are prescribed and supplied while addressing appropriate use of these medicines.

Belgium Records Warm Late-September Weather

Belgium is experiencing unusually warm conditions for late September, with temperatures expected to remain above 20°C in many areas for several more days. Saturday is forecast to be largely sunny and dry, with temperatures reaching around 19°C along the coast and as high as 25°C in Belgian Lorraine.

The warm spell is expected to continue beyond the weekend, making the end of September notably mild across much of the country.

Belgium Defeats Italy 2–0 in Nations League

Belgium made a strong start to its UEFA Nations League campaign by defeating Italy 2–0 in Rome. Mika Godts opened the scoring in the 21st minute after receiving a pass from Kevin De Bruyne, before Belgium added a second goal to secure the victory.

The result spoiled Roberto Mancini’s return as Italy’s head coach. Italian supporters expressed their frustration during the match, while Mancini acknowledged the reaction after the defeat.

Belgium’s victory gives the national team an important early result in the opening round of the Nations League campaign.