Since the previous stability programme was submitted,
the Belgian authorities have pressed on with their huge programme of
reforms aimed at raising the economy's growth and employment potential.
Besides implementing the measures already planned, new initiatives were
taken during the course of 2007, as well as when the budget for 2008 was
being drawn up.
More precisely, these many provisions aim to encourage
supply and demand on the labour market, to sharpen enterprises'
competitive edge and to improve their fiscal and regulatory environment,
as well as guaranteeing a high-quality social protection system. Funds
have also been made available for certain priority areas.
In its March 2008 agreement, the new federal
government gave this process renewed impetus by setting out the broad
socio-economic policy guidelines for the medium term.
Priority is given to promoting employment, so as to
successfully take up the main challenges facing the socio-economic
model. This objective will notably be achieved by continuing the
activation policy and reducing the charges imposed on labour, especially
for low to average incomes, taking into account their family background.
The entrepreneurial spirit will also be encouraged, notably with an
action plan focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises. The social
protection system, a major source of well-being and prosperity, will be
further strengthened. Particular attention will also be paid to the
environment and sustainable development. Measures implementing these
broad policy lines will be decided over the next few months.
