Reflecting on Belgium's Strategic Orientations: Opportunities for a Niche-Based Approach in Defense and Foreign Policy

In a world undergoing profound change, Belgium faces crucial strategic choices in defense and foreign policy. Since the end of World War II, the country has been deeply committed to establishing and maintaining multilateral alliances. Multilateralism, the cornerstone of Belgian strategy, stands as both an undisputed and, at times, an unquestionable element. Within this framework, defense and foreign policy have become specialized. Given the evolution of the international system, should Belgium further deepen this multilateral approach, or should it seek to diversify its options by developing new specialized niches in defense and diplomacy? What role could a revitalization of bilateral relations play in defending its national interests? This conference aims to explore these questions by focusing on two main axes: (1) The relevance and limitations of multilateralism in Belgium’s defense and foreign policy strategy. (2) The opportunities offered by niche strategies and bilateral partnerships within a redefined strategic balance. Through discussions between experts, researchers, and practitioners, the goal will be to identify possible ways to enhance the effectiveness of Belgium’s defense policy and its diplomatic standing on the global stage.

Please note that the venue for our event has changed. The new address is Salle Vaes (Collèges des Doyen, entrée par Place Rabelais, 1).

This event operates under the Chatham House Rule, meaning participants may use the information shared but must not reveal the identity or affiliation of speakers or attendees without explicit permission.

Panels Overview
Panel 1 - Specialization as Strategy: Examining Belgium’s Defense Role Beyond Multilateralism

Description
Since the end of World War II, Belgium has relied primarily on its multilateral alliances, embodied mainly by NATO and the European Union, for defense. However, this strategy faces criticism both internally and externally, as Belgium is often seen as a 'free rider' delegating most of its security responsibilities. This panel aims to question the relevance of this multilateral approach in Belgian defense strategy. Should it remain the central pillar of the country’s security policy, or could Belgium enhance its role by adopting a niche strategy in specific areas? The panel will explore successful examples of specialization, such as maritime demining, and discuss potential niches Belgium could explore to maximize its impact, given its limited resources. What military structure and organization would support such a strategy, and how can Belgium ensure that these choices meet current security challenges without sacrificing multilateral cooperation?
This panel is intended for security experts, political and military leaders, as well as researchers and defense professionals who wish to debate the future possibilities for Belgian defense and security strategy within an international framework.
 

Panel 2 - What Role for Multilateralism in Contemporary Belgian Foreign Policy?

Description
The international system is evolving at breakneck speed. Alliances with shifting configurations are being redefined, raising questions about Europe’s role. Faced with a gradual fragmentation of the globalized world, UN multilateralism coexists with alternative initiatives, such as those promoted by the expanded BRICS. While multilateralism remains a powerful lever of influence, is it still the main path for Belgium’s diplomatic strategy? A return to power dynamics is influencing Belgian foreign policy and the promotion of its national interests. Should Belgium deepen its multilateralism by developing new niches, or would it be more relevant to revitalize a bilateral network that has declined in recent decades? This panel will explore this question to determine if multilateralism should remain the priority or if it’s time for Belgium to refine its approach through more focused specialization.
This panel is intended for experts in diplomacy and international relations, policymakers and diplomats, as well as researchers and practitioners in the fields of foreign affairs and diplomacy, who wish to discuss possible futures for Belgian diplomacy in an international context.

The registrationfor this event are closed.

Contacts:
• Pr. Tanguy Struye de Swielande – Professeur UCLouvain (tanguy.struye@uclouvain.be)
• Julien Godfroid – PhD Candidate UCLouvain (julien.godfroid@uclouvain.be)
• Marion Jacques – Teaching Assistant & PhD Candidate UCLouvain (marion.jacques@uclouvain.be)
• Edouard Xia – PhD Candidate UCLouvain (edouard.xia@uclouvain.be)

Conference presentation