Could Belgium’s Parliamentary Model Be Ukraine’s Key to a Democratic Future?

as present at the Ukraine-Belgium football match in Genk. Belgium won 3-0. The atmosphere was unlike any other game I have attended—no animosity, just pure sport. Romelu Lukaku was magnificent. Yet, what left the deepest impression on me were the Ukrainian politicians, military personnel, and businessmen who passionately expressed their hope and determination for a bright future for Ukraine.

Ukraine has endured unimaginable suffering due to the ongoing war. Every Ukrainian family has been deeply touched—physically, psychologically, and emotionally. Homes have been destroyed, millions displaced, and the trauma inflicted on the population is profound. Yet, amidst this tragedy, discussions about the nation’s future political leadership have already surfaced, anticipating a hopeful end to hostilities.

Debates rage about whether President Zelenskyy, whose leadership has steered Ukraine through its most challenging days, should remain at the helm, or whether fresh leadership should take charge in rebuilding the nation. Lobbying for various presidential hopefuls has quietly begun, underscoring the relentless nature of politics, even amidst warfare.

However, the pivotal question is not necessarily who leads, but how they lead. Ukraine, poised to rebuild itself and integrate fully into the European Union, needs to consider pressing the reset button on its entire political system. Democracy isn’t merely about charismatic personalities or individual leadership; it fundamentally revolves around consensus-building, collective governance, and broad representation.

Here, Ukraine might look to Belgium’s parliamentary democracy as an instructive model. While admittedly imperfect, the Belgian system offers valuable lessons on governance through compromise and collective decision-making. In Belgium, voters elect representatives to a diverse parliament, after which coalition governments form through intensive negotiations, often lasting months. Extreme positions find little footing, as governing coalitions require broad agreement and moderation. This inherently forces parties toward the center, building consensus that reflects the electorate’s overall sentiment.

Once a coalition is formed, it selects a Prime Minister tasked with executing a predetermined governmental agenda that coalition partners have openly negotiated. While coalition-building can indeed be complex and time-consuming, the result is a stable government capable of handling multifaceted challenges without marginalizing significant portions of the population.

For Ukraine, adopting such a parliamentary system could significantly enhance political stability. The post-war recovery will demand tough choices and consensus-based policies that enjoy broad popular support. Ukraine cannot afford to exacerbate divisions or sideline segments of its society; it needs a structure capable of uniting the nation behind collective decisions.

The current Chairman of Ukraine’s Parliament could initiate preparations for this transformation, focusing immediately on constitutional amendments and electoral reforms. Critical aspects such as protecting freedom of the press, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding human rights in line with European democratic principles must be emphasized.

Moreover, Ukraine must prepare proactively for the post-war reality. With nearly half a million soldiers set to return home, along with vast quantities of weapons, the nation must develop thoughtful strategies for reintegration. Creating structured opportunities, including professional combat units that could participate in international peacekeeping missions or other combat roles abroad, could offer meaningful employment to returning veterans whose skills and experiences are invaluable.

Planning for these challenges must begin immediately, reflecting strategic foresight rather than short-term reactions. Much like a chess game, the complexities of national recovery require meticulous attention, envisioning every potential scenario to ensure enduring stability and prosperity.

Belgium’s parliamentary system— playbook of compromise—is indeed far from flawless, yet it demonstrates remarkable resilience and stability. For Ukraine, aspiring to integrate fully into Europe, this approach might represent the most prudent and effective pathway to rebuilding a robust, inclusive democracy.

As Ukraine navigates this difficult chapter of its history, reflecting deeply on the political structures it adopts will be crucial. The Belgian experience, emphasizing consensus over division, offers Ukraine a compelling model. By choosing a parliamentary democracy, Ukraine could secure not just political stability but also ensure a resilient future as a valued member of the European family.