ABSTRACT
Belgium, as a small state, does not pursue global power ambitions but has historically been shaped by international conflicts and alliances. Its neutrality failed in both World Wars, profoundly impacting domestic politics and reinforcing the belief in multilateralism. Belgium’s colonial past in Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi continues to shape its foreign policy, oscillating between responsibility, economic interests, and strained relations. Post-war, Belgium became a strong advocate of European integration, hosting EU and NATO institutions in Brussels. Its diplomacy emphasizes development aid in Africa and a deeply pro-European stance, often seeing the EU as a natural extension of its interests. Despite occasional domestic frictions, such as the 2016 CETA ratification crisis, Belgium remains one of the most pro-EU countries. Ultimately, Belgium’s role in the world is less about power projection and more about embedding itself in multilateral frameworks while managing the legacies of its colonial history.
