Prince Laurent of Belgium Advocates for Royal Pension Fund

Prince Laurent of Belgium has initiated a legal case requesting a pension to protect his family financially after his royal duties end. Recently, a court has suggested lawmakers consider drafting such regulations, though it rejected the notion that royal responsibilities equate to a conventional job.

In Belgium, royal responsibilities come with significant allowances and perks, but what happens when their time of duty comes to an end? Prince Laurent, the younger brother of King Philippe, is currently facing this dilemma as he pushes for a state pension to ensure financial security for his family. This week, a Belgian court partially sided with him, advising lawmakers to contemplate regulations for a government-funded pension program aimed at supporting the prince's future, despite dismissing his claim that being royal constitutes a job comparable to self-employment.

According to the prince's attorney, Olivier Rijckaert, the court classified Prince Laurent as a unique entity within the government's framework, likening him to a "super public servant." The ruling also acknowledges that his elder sister, Princess Astrid, shares this designation. At 61 years of age, Prince Laurent now faces a decision on whether to wait for legislative action or pursue an appeal to expedite the process.

The royal has been vocal about concerns for his wife's financial prospects and that of their three adult children, especially if he can no longer fulfill his duties. His legal arguments were presented to Belgium's National Institute for the Social Security of the Self-employed, emphasizing the lack of a pension could leave his family vulnerable. Currently, he receives an annual allowance of €400,000, a significant portion of which is allocated for staffing and various official activities, all of which necessitate verified documentation of expenses.

As this legal case unfolds, it brings to light the complexities surrounding the financial frameworks governing royal families and ignites a discussion on the nature of their responsibilities and the support they require post-service. The outcome could set a significant precedent for the future financial security of royalty in Belgium.