Devolution,Regional Governance and Planning Systems in Belgium

This paper looks at the process of federalization in Belgium through an insider's view of a very unique planning experiment. Notwithstanding the fact that this process still struggles with subsidiarity, a scattering of policy instruments over different governmental levels and a limited fiscal autonomy, it proved to be very beneficial in building an individual identity for the three regions (Flanders, Brussels, Wallonia). Indeed, the process makes it clear that a combination of legislative as well as executive powers gives more strength to the regions to tackle their own problems, face their own challenges and decide on their own priorities.