ABSTRACT
Belgium’s neighbours sometimes look at Belgium with some curiosity. Does that small country where Europe’s capital is based really still exist? Many observers are under the impression that Belgium is in the process of falling apart in the wake of repeated constitutional reforms. Some have the impression that Belgians find it difficult to participate in any kind of activity as one nation. For instance, in its representation in the standing committees of the European Science Foundation, Belgium is the only country to send a delegation from both language communities. In the European Social Survey, Belgium is also the only country incapable of compiling its data under the leadership of one national coordinator. Is this image of a slow disintegration played out in reality? Or is Belgium a country capable of maintaining its unity despite its cultural differences, thanks to the high level of autonomy of its composite parts and the original solutions it has found?
