Belgian Prince's Social Security Claim Denied Despite Royal Allowance

The Brussels court determined that the royal is neither self-employed nor an employee, despite his arguments regarding his work obligations and charity efforts.

Prince Laurent of Belgium, the younger brother of King Philippe, recently faced a setback in his attempt to secure social security benefits. Last year, he received an impressive €388,000 (approximately £295,850 or $376,000) from the Belgian state as part of his royal allowance. However, the prince claimed that his roles, which include familial duties and managing an animal welfare charity, should qualify him for additional social support.

Speaking to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, the 61-year-old princely figure emphasized that his pursuit was rooted in "principle" rather than financial gain. “When a migrant comes here, he registers, he has a right to [social security]," he highlighted, stating that he considers himself a "migrant" in the context of his unique royal status.

On Monday, the court in Brussels dismissed Laurent's appeal, ruling that he cannot be classified as either self-employed or an employee under current Belgian laws. The judge did acknowledge, according to VTM, that the prince is technically eligible for a pension. However, due to legislative gaps, his right to such benefits remains unfulfilled, prompting a call for amendments to the existing laws.

The legal team representing the prince, led by lawyer Olivier Rijckaert, asserted that Laurent's application was grounded in substantial legal principles rather than mere personal whims. Rijckaert pointed out that Belgian law grants social security to all residents, irrespective of their wealth status, arguing for a fair treatment irrespective of royal titles.

Although most of Laurent's allowance is reportedly dedicated to paying his assistant and covering travel expenses, he is left with about €5,000 (around £4,300 or $5,500) monthly without access to social security benefits like medical expense reimbursements. The prince expressed concerns over his family’s financial stability once his royal allowance ceases with his death.

Laurent, who ranks 15th in the Belgian line of succession, has had a history of controversies and legal disputes. The prince, often referred to as the "cursed prince" or “prince maudit” in Belgium, had his allowance cut by parliament in 2018 after he attended an unpermitted reception at the Chinese embassy in regal attire. He has also faced criticism for speeding offences and for his meetings in Libya during the regime of the late Muammar Gaddafi.

As legal discussions continue, Prince Laurent and his advisors are currently deliberating whether to challenge the court's decision further.