Belgian Prince's Quest for Social Benefits Dismissed by Court Amidst Royal Allowance

A Belgian court has denied Prince Laurent's request for social security benefits, despite his significant royal allowance. The ruling highlights gaps in legislation around royal pensions and raises questions about social security rights for those of noble status.

 

In a surprising legal battle, Prince Laurent of Belgium has faced failure in his attempt to secure social security benefits in addition to his generous royal allowance, which totaled €388,000 (£295,850; $376,000) in the previous year. The 61-year-old prince, who is the younger brother of King Philippe, had argued that his role in royal duties, as well as his ten-year commitment to an animal welfare charity, justifies his claim to these benefits, which he insists are a matter of principle rather than financial gain.

During proceedings, the court in Brussels ruled against Laurent, asserting that he does not qualify as either self-employed or an employee under current definitions. The prince tried to assert his status, likening himself to a migrant with rights to social security. However, the judge acknowledged a significant gap in legislation, indicating that while Laurent may not currently be entitled to social security benefits, he could qualify for a pension—a provision that remains unattainable due to legal loopholes.

Laurent’s legal representative, Olivier Rijckaert, emphasized that their case was rooted in the principle that social security should be universal, applying equally to all residents of Belgium, from the wealthiest to the most impoverished. Despite his royal income, he revealed that a majority of the allowance is depleted by expenses, leaving Laurent with a relatively modest monthly surplus of €5000 (£4300; $5500), devoid of access to benefits like medical expense reimbursement.

Following the rejection of his social security application, Laurent expressed ongoing concerns over the future financial security of his family, particularly as their royal allowance will cease upon his death. Past controversies have plagued the prince's reputation in Belgium; he has been labeled as the "cursed prince" due to incidents ranging from unauthorized attendance at diplomatic events to accumulating numerous speeding fines.

After having initially filed his request in September 2023, legal discussions continue regarding whether to pursue an appeal against the court’s decision. The situation has not only spotlighted the complexities of royal remuneration but has also ignited a discourse on the rights associated with noble titles in modern society.