The Brussels regional government has presented a 2027 budget plan that aims to reduce public spending while maintaining investment in housing and local authorities. The proposal sets the region’s expected deficit at 719 million euros and continues its longer-term goal of reaching a balanced budget by 2029.
The budget includes major savings in public administration. One of the largest measures involves reducing staff costs by nearly 144 million euros compared with the end of 2025. The government plans to maintain a recruitment freeze, meaning employees who leave administrative positions will generally not be replaced unless their work is considered essential.
Consultancy and information technology spending will also be reduced. The plan includes savings of 55 million euros on consultancy and studies, alongside another 28 million euros in IT projects. Subsidies for associations are also expected to remain lower, producing further savings for the regional administration.
The future Kanal museum will face a reduction in annual government support. Its allocation is expected to fall from 28 million euros to 24 million euros from 2027. The government also plans to generate income through the sale of its headquarters in the Rue Ducale, with payments expected over several years.
However, not every department will face reductions. Housing and local government are among the areas receiving additional support. The regional development company Citydev is expected to receive an additional 15 million euros, while local authorities will receive 15 million euros in subsidies during 2027.
Social housing also remains part of the government’s spending priorities. The budget includes funding for the regional housing company, although political disagreements over reforms in the sector may affect the wider discussion.
Transport investment is expected to fall compared with earlier plans. The regional government has reduced the amount allocated to infrastructure projects, including roads, tunnels and public transport development.
The budget must now pass through parliamentary review. Lawmakers will examine whether the savings are realistic and whether the proposed investments are enough to support the region’s economic and social needs. Brussels faces a difficult financial situation, and the coming years will test whether the government can reduce its deficit without weakening essential services.
