Alternative solutions
If Belgium is no longer a solution in its current constellation, we need to see what solutions can be found. Continuing this policy is not an option. All indicators are at red. Below, we outline some of the alternatives we looked at.
Return to unitary Belgium
A return to unitary Belgium is a pattern of thinking that is mainly fed in Wallonia. For Flanders, this is only possible in a true democracy. That means one man or woman, one vote each and the majority decides. For Wallonia, that thought is unacceptable. There they understand unitary Belgium to mean maintaining the current imbalances and democratic deficits, but that is equally impossible for Flanders. The federal constituency as an interim solution is not an alternative worthy of that name.
Division of Belgium into independent states
This is the dream of the Flemish Movement. The most effective path to democratisation, own responsibilities and independent development. It is not self-evident. How do the majority of Flemish people feel about this? Would independence gain a majority in a referendum? Nor is independence enforceable before the International Court of Justice. The road to independence is likely to be long and uncertain, but the current problems require quick and decisive changes.
Regionalisation of most powers
This solution follows up on the original premise: distribute powers by region as homogeneously as possible, allowing regions to have their own emphases. In this way, many, if not all, conflicts of interest can be avoided. Moreover, each region is responsible for how it interprets and pays for its competences. Of course, the idea is not to immediately abolish solidarity between regions - as it currently exists.