The Brussels government took a key step toward fiscal stability on Thursday by approving the initial budget for 2026. The draft budget forecasts a deficit of €957 million, marking a

reduction from previous shortfalls and aligning with the coalition’s pledge to gradually balance the region’s finances.

“This is the first concrete step in the budgetary process that should lead to healthy Brussels finances by the end of the legislative term,” the government said in a statement. The administration aims to lower the deficit below €1 billion this year and achieve a fully balanced budget by 2029.

The 2026 budget blends fiscal discipline with strategic investments in the region’s core priorities. These include measures to support the middle class, maintain roads, bridges, and tunnels, and enhance public safety and cleanliness. The government also plans to boost operational efficiency, tightening oversight of administrative structures, consultancy spending, and discretionary subsidies.

Budget Minister Dirk De Smedt emphasized the plan’s long-term focus: “With this budget, we are restoring structure and discipline to Brussels’ finances. We are setting in motion a credible process that should lead to a balanced budget by 2029. Brussels must once again be a reliable government that manages its resources wisely.”

The next stage involves parliamentary and audit scrutiny. The draft budget will be submitted to the Brussels Parliament on Friday and then reviewed by the Court of Auditors, which has five days to examine the figures. The Finance Committee is scheduled to start discussions on 16 March, featuring presentations by Minister De Smedt and the Court of Auditors.

Final debate and voting in the Brussels Parliament are planned for 26 and 27 March, ensuring the region will operate under a full 2026 budget starting 1 April. Photo by EmDee, Wikimedia commons.