Belgium in Europe

Belgium- a pioneer

A founding member of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, then of the European Economic Community in 1957, Belgium has always played an instrumental role in European construction. It was also among the first countries to ratify the Schengen Agreements (free circulation of persons) and to adopt the Euro.

In 2001, Belgium once again lived up to its reputation when it held the presidency of the Council of the European Union. This led to the Laeken Declaration, which made it possible to achieve the Treaty of Lisbon some years later.

Paul-Henri Spaak

Great Belgian politicians have played a decisive role in the development of Europe. This is notably the case of Paul-Henri Spaak, who symbolises Belgium’s founding role and engagement in European construction. In 1955, he was at the heart of the effort to relaunch European integration (the Messina Conference), which led to the signing of the Treaties of Rome in 1957 and to the birth of the European Economic Community (EEC). As such, he is considered one of the founding fathers of the European Union.

Find out more about Paul-Henri Spaak

Belgians on the European stage

Today, Belgians continue to play an important role in the European Union, notably with: ·

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Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union

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