Vlaams Belang Leads in Belgian EP Election, New Flemish Alliance Was Big Surprise, Belga Journalist Says

Vlaams Belang, Belgium's far-right party, got 13.86% support, aligning with the Identity and Democracy group in the European Parliament, Reinhart Bracke, a journalist from Belga News Agency told BTA after his country voted to elect its representatives in the June 9 European elections. The Reformist Movement, part of the Renew Europe group, closely follows with 13.58%. The New Flemish Alliance, a moderate nationalist party, ranks third and Bracke calls them "the big surprise" in the elections.

Recent forecasts have consistently shown the far right as the emerging dominant political force. New Flemish Alliance emerged victorious in the Federal Parliament, surpassing Vlaams Belang, which secured the second position.

On recent election outcomes, Bracke noted that results largely reflect broader European trends. He highlighted that while the far-right gained parliamentary seats, their success fell short of pre-election forecasts.

The political analyst expressed belief in the imminent formation of a new government in Belgium, noting that incumbent Prime Minister Alexander de Croo did not receive enough votes to retain his position. He also suggested the process of forming a new government could be lengthy, citing complicated regional negotiations as the likeliest cause. He added that election results indicate a likely centre-right government.

In Belgium, pre-election polls had forecasted a decisive win for Vlaams Belang, the far-right party. Contrary to expectations, the New Flemish Alliance, a less radical group, emerged victorious, marking a surprising election outcome.

Bracke also noted that the 'Les Engagés' party, affiliated with the European People's Party group, has made impressive strides in the francophone regions of Belgium.