Overview of Belgium

Profile

Belgium, though a small country in Western Europe, has historically prospered as a transportation hub. The northern Flemish region is Dutch-speaking, the southern Walloon region is French-speaking, and the bilingual city of Brussels forms the federation. It has diverse industries from steel and chemicals to advanced technology, with GDP per capita among the world's highest. Home to EU and NATO headquarters, it is called the "Capital of the EU", while also known for food culture such as chocolate and beer.

Official name: Kingdom of Belgium
Common name: Belgium
Numeric code: 056
Alpha-3 code: BEL
Alpha-2 code: BE
Population: 11.7 million (2023)
Population density: 383 people/km2
Primary languages: Dutch, French, German
Major religions: Catholicism, Non-religious, Islam
National anthem: La Brabançonne
Calling code: +32
Internet TLD: .be

History

Gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830, then proceeded with federalization while reconciling language conflicts.

Beginning with the Roman province of Gallia Belgica, medieval Flemish cities flourished with wool and trade. After belonging to Habsburg territories from the 17th century, it gained independence in the 19th century. Becoming an industrial nation after building continental Europe's first railway during the Industrial Revolution. Suffered major damage in two world wars but led European integration afterward. In 1993, it officially transitioned to a federal state, institutionalizing the coexistence of multiple languages and communities.

Geography & climate

Northern part faces North Sea with low alluvial plains, southern part spreads with hills of Ardennes highlands.

Temperate oceanic climate (Cfb)

Area: Europe / 30528 km²
Capital: Brussels
Largest city: Brussels
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: France, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg

Natural resources

Coal, Limestone, Clay, Silica sand, Timber, Groundwater, Small amount of natural gas

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy, federal parliamentary system

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 630 billion US Dollar (2023)

GDP (PPP): 722 billion US Dollar (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Dutch, French, German

Time zone: Central European Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Flemish, Walloons, German-speaking Belgians, Moroccans, Turks

Life expectancy

81.6 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Soccer, Cycling, Field Hockey, Tennis, Athletics