Belgium

World Book Index

Introduction

Belgium, a nation steeped in history and culture, gained its independence from the Netherlands in 1830. Since then, it has evolved into a modern, technologically advanced European state, playing a pivotal role in international affairs as a member of both NATO and the European Union. The capital city, Brussels, is not only the political heart of Belgium but also serves as the headquarters for numerous international organizations, including the EU and NATO, making it a significant hub for diplomacy and global governance.

Neighboring countries

France - Germany - Luxembourg - Netherlands

Geography

Area
Total: 30,528 sq km
Land: 30,278 sq km
Water: 250 sq km

Belgium's geography is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes coastal plains, rolling hills, and dense forests. The country is strategically located in Western Europe, bordered by France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Its temperate climate features mild winters and cool summers, with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The natural resources of Belgium include construction materials, silica sand, carbonates, and arable land, which contribute to its economic activities and agricultural productivity.

People and Society

Population
Total: 11,977,634 (2024 estimated)

Belgium is a multicultural society with a population that reflects a rich tapestry of ethnic backgrounds. The largest ethnic group is Belgian, comprising 75.2% of the population, followed by Italian (4.1%), Moroccan (3.7%), and French (2.4%). The linguistic landscape is equally diverse, with Dutch and French as the official languages, spoken by 60% and 40% of the population, respectively, while German is spoken by less than 1%. The religious composition is predominantly Roman Catholic (57.1%), alongside a growing Muslim community (6.8%) and a significant proportion of atheists and agnostics (29.3%). The population growth rate stands at 0.53% (2024 estimated), indicating a stable demographic trend in the country.

Government

Government type
Federal parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy

Capital
Name: Brussels

The Belgian government operates as a federal parliamentary democracy, with a constitutional monarchy that plays a ceremonial role in governance. The chief of state is King Philippe, who has been in power since July 21, 2013. The head of government is Prime Minister Bart De Wever, who took office on February 3, 2025. Belgium maintains a robust diplomatic presence, with Ambassador Frédéric Bernard representing the country in the United States since February 25, 2025, while the U.S. diplomatic mission is currently headed by Chargé d'Affaires Kathleen Lively since July 2025.

Economy

Economic overview
Belgium boasts a high-income economy that is integral to the European Union and the eurozone. However, it faces challenges such as slow economic growth, weakened domestic consumption, and declining export demand. The country grapples with high public debt and structural deficits, primarily linked to social spending. Additionally, an aging workforce has resulted in weak productivity growth and participation rates, raising concerns about long-term economic sustainability.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$749.229 billion (2024 estimated)
$741.672 billion (2023 estimated)
$732.865 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$63,100 (2024 estimated)
$62,900 (2023 estimated)
$62,700 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$525.458 billion (2024 estimated)
$542.508 billion (2023 estimated)
$565.233 billion (2022 estimated)

Exports - partners
France 20%, Netherlands 15%, Germany 14%, Italy 6%, USA 5% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Refined petroleum, natural gas, vaccines, cars, packaged medicine (2023)

Imports
$531.029 billion (2024 estimated)
$546.426 billion (2023 estimated)
$573.192 billion (2022 estimated)

Imports - partners
Netherlands 20%, Germany 13%, France 11%, USA 7%, Ireland 4% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Cars, natural gas, vaccines, packaged medicine, crude petroleum (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.951, ranking it 10th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 23rd out of 158 countries tested with a score of 6.725. (more information)