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Archived edition · September 18, 2026 Today's news →

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Local Governments in Turmoil Amidst Airport Disruptions, Policy Debates

Belgium faces a day of political turbulence with the collapse of the Oostende city government following accusations against First Alderman Charlotte Verkeyn, and a heated dispute within the Brussels government where Minister-President Boris Dilliès and Minister Ahmed Laaouej clash over a dismissal. These developments highlight internal strains in local and regional administrations.

The ongoing strike at Charleroi Airport continues to cause disruptions, with more flight cancellations anticipated for today. Concurrently, broader policy discussions are underway, including Belgium's ambitious plan for carbon neutrality by 2050 and the potential use of the Chertal site for new nuclear installations.

Further domestic news includes allegations of misused security funds in Brussels, a whistleblower's claims against a health fund, and the announcement of the national football team selection. On a positive note, Belgian biologists have contributed to the discovery of a new species of wild cat.

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Local Government Crises Deepen

The city government of Oostende has collapsed due to complaints against First Alderman Charlotte Verkeyn (N-VA), leading to a political deadlock. In Brussels, a significant political dispute is unfolding as Minister-President Boris Dilliès (MR) seeks to dismiss the head of Kanal, facing opposition from Minister Ahmed Laaouej (PS). Additionally, an audit is being demanded into how Brussels' annual 55 million euro security budget is allocated, with accusations that funds were diverted to social…

Environmental and Energy Policy Developments

Belgium is outlining its path to carbon neutrality by 2050, which includes a projected reduction in livestock farming and an increase in forests and soy cultivation. Concurrently, the former nuclear site at Chertal is being considered as a potential location for new nuclear facilities, indicating ongoing discussions on the country's future energy mix.

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