Belgium should survive surge of Flemish far right

Significance

The party’s core goals are to achieve independence for Flanders and implement significant restrictions regarding asylum and migration policy. Belgium’s mainstream parties have thus far refused to cooperate with Flemish Interest.

Impacts

• Strong support for Flemish Interest will force centrist parties to adopt a tougher stance on immigration and law and order.
• Strategic splits between the two main pro-independence Flemish parties will undermine the prospects for independence.
• A Flemish Interest victory in the regional election will put major pressure on the New Flemish Alliance to cooperate with it in government.