A Brussels court has rejected Prince Laurent's attempt to secure social security benefits despite receiving a significant royal allowance. The ruling sheds light on the complexities of Belgium's social welfare system and raises questions about its inclusivity for residents.
Belgian Prince's Court Bid for Social Security Benefits Denied
Belgian Prince's Court Bid for Social Security Benefits Denied
Court rules against Prince Laurent's appeal for welfare on top of royal allowance, highlighting legal gaps in Belgian social security.
In a striking legal decision, a Brussels court has dismissed Prince Laurent of Belgium's bid for social security benefits despite his royal allowance amounting to €388,000 (£295,850; $376,000) last year. The younger brother of King Philippe argued that his obligations as a royal and his decade-long commitment to animal welfare warranted entitlement to these benefits. However, the court determined that the prince does not qualify as self-employed or an employee under current laws.
Laurent, 61, expressed that his appeal was motivated by principle rather than financial need, stating, “When a migrant comes here, he registers, he has a right to [social security]. I may be a migrant too.” Yet, the court reaffirmed its position, implying that the prince's royal status fundamentally alters his eligibility for social welfare.
Despite the ruling, VTM reported that the presiding judge recognized the prince's potential entitlement to a pension, but acknowledged legislative loopholes rendering it unattainable. Laurent's lawyer, Olivier Rijckaert, contended that the request symbolized a broader equity issue, emphasizing that social security should satisfy all residents from the wealthiest to the most marginalized.
With the bulk of his royal allowance allocated towards an assistant's salary and travel costs, the prince reportedly retains only about €5,000 (£4,300; $5,500) monthly. This leaves him without access to essential social security benefits, including reimbursements for medical expenses. Laurent has voiced concern over his family’s financial stability, particularly considering the eventual reduction of his allowance upon his passing.
Laurent's efforts to challenge the Belgian state's previous denial of his social security claim began with a hearing in November 2024. As of now, neither the prince nor his legal team have decided on pursuing an appeal. Known for his controversial public persona, Laurent has faced criticism in the past, including a 2018 parliamentary decision to reduce his allowance due to unauthorized attendance at a Chinese embassy event.
The situation illuminates the nuanced terrain of Belgium's social security system and the expectations surrounding its application to individuals of various socioeconomic standings, including members of the royal family.
