King’s 21 July speech focuses on democracy, social cohesion

King Philippe’s traditional 21 July speech focused on the strength of democracy in Belgium, along with the importance of social cohesion and cooperation when it comes to reform.

“While democracy is under pressure in many countries, it remains solid here,” King Philippe said in the speech delivered from his office in the Palace of Brussels, asserting that most Belgian politicians were not “bitter” or “triumphalist” following the recent elections but rather “constructive and dignified”.

He said that he expects possible convergences between parties at federal level and in the regions – “an opportunity for a new coherent project for the country”.

The King also made reference to a need for reform and the importance of the European Union, saying “the next five years will be decisive for Europe and our country”.

Those reforms, the King emphasised, must be “carried out for the benefit of the quality of our public services” and come in the form of “a unifying project that also speaks to people's hearts”.

The speech had an unusual emphasis on politics but was also brief, lasting just under five minutes.

King Philippe also used it as an opportunity to congratulate those who contributed to the success of Belgium's six-month presidency of the European Union.

Present in the background of the speech were images of some of the Belgian Olympians who will be participating in the Paris Olympic Games, where the King and Queen will attend the opening ceremony this Friday.

21 July is considered the national holiday because it was on 21 July 1831 that Leopold I was sworn in as Belgium's first king.

The occasion was also marked by festivities in Brussels, including free concerts and a traditional fireworks show, followed by a laser and drone show.

Photo: Yves Herman/Belga