1. Introduction
a. History and background
In 1830, Belgium became independent from the Netherlands. A
monarchy was installed and a national constitutional law was
accepted. Following recent state reforms, Belgium has become a
federal state divided into three regions (Flanders, Wallonia and
the Brussels Capital Region) and three Communities (Flemish, French
and German).
In 1957, Belgium was a founding member of the European Union
(EU). It hosts the headquarters of the Council and Commission of
the EU, North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), and many other
international organisations.
The currency is the euro (EUR).
b. Government
Belgium is a constitutional monarchy governed by a multi-party
coalition. Until 1815, Belgium was part of France and the French
Code Napoléon was installed. When Belgium became part of
the Netherlands in 1815, the French administration and legal system
were adopted. Now Belgium is in the European Union, European
legislation also has an important influence.
As Belgium is a federal state, each region and community
exercises to some extent its own legislative and executive
power.
Remko van Roekel
Citco (Nederland) BV, Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Caroline Hoogsteyns
NV Citco Belgium SA, Brussels,
Belgium
Doeke van der Molen
Citco C&T (Luxembourg) SA,
Luxembourg