Belgian Prince's Social Security Claim Denied by Court Sparks Debate

Prince Laurent contended that his philanthropic and royal duties warranted benefits, but his arguments were ultimately dismissed by a Brussels court.

In a recent ruling, Prince Laurent of Belgium has faced disappointment as his attempt to secure social security benefits alongside his significant royal allowance has been quashed by the courts. The 61-year-old royal, brother to King Philippe, argued that his royal responsibilities and decade-long involvement with an animal welfare charity rendered him eligible for social assistance. He received approximately €388,000 (£295,850; $376,000) last year from state funds alone.

Laurent asserted his claim stemmed from "principle" rather than financial need. Speaking to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, he likened his situation to that of migrants eligible for social security, emphasizing his family's long-standing ties to the establishment of Belgium. However, the Brussels court ruled against him, stating he could not be classified as either self-employed or an employee.

Although the presiding judge recognized Laurent's potential entitlement to a pension, gaps in current legislation prevented a favorable ruling. His legal representative, Olivier Rijckaert, described the request not as a fanciful whim but an insistence on the rights granted by Belgian law to residents across all socioeconomic strata. Rijckaert noted that most of Laurent's allowance goes to supporting staff and travel expenses, leaving him with roughly €5,000 (£4,300; $5,500) monthly, devoid of additional social security benefits, including medical reimbursements.

The prince's concerns extend to the welfare of his family, particularly with the impending reduction of his allowance following his death. Following a rejection of his social security application last November, Laurent's legal team has yet to determine whether to contest the court's conclusion. Known as the "cursed prince" in Belgium, Laurent's past controversies include heavy fines for speeding and unauthorized attendance at events that sparked political uproar.