Unlike most of the trade unions in European countries, Belgian unions managed to preserve a high and stable union density, and strong institutional positions. However, their situation is not blissful and the condition of both the workforce and the unions has been worsening for three decades....

Belgium faces two main fiscal challenges that call for a durable fiscal consolidation. First, at above 105 percent of GDP, public debt creates vulnerabilities. Second, the aging population and early access to pension benefits will lead in the medium term to significant fiscal costs. To address...