ABSTRACT
In this article, we situate Belgian federalism in a comparative perspective and analyse its contribution to the sustainability of Belgium. The study is divided into three sections. In the first section, we set out the structure of Belgian federalism and analyse why the federalisation of Belgium did not start until 1970. In the second section, we highlight the specificities of Belgian federalism when put into a comparative perspective and discuss the political dynamics that underpin its further development. In the third section, we list the assets and liabilities of federalism for holding Belgium together, and bring in additional factors that may add to the sustainability of Belgium. On the basis of these assessments we will – cautiously – attempt to predict the political future of Belgium and the contribution of federalism therein.
