Belgium is known for its chocolates, waffles, and of course, the royal family. Among them is Prince Laurent, the younger brother of King Philippe, who recently found himself in a legal tussle over social security benefits.
Picture this – a prince receiving a hefty sum of €388,000 from state funds annually. That’s approximately £295,850 or $376,000 in cold hard cash. One would think that would be more than enough to live comfortably without any additional perks needed.
However, Prince Laurent believed otherwise. He argued that his royal duties and running an animal welfare charity qualified him for social security benefits on top of his lavish royal allowance. It was not about the money he claimed but rather a matter of principle… at least in his eyes.
“I may be a migrant too, but one whose family established the state in place.”
The court had a different perspective on the matter. They deemed the prince neither self-employed nor an employee eligible for such benefits. Despite this setback, there was a glimmer of hope as the judge hinted at the possibility of pension entitlement for Laurent if certain legislative gaps were addressed promptly.
His lawyer passionately defended Laurent’s stance, emphasizing that social security should be accessible to all residents regardless of their financial status. The lawyer shed light on how most of the prince’s allowance went towards necessary expenses like salaries and travel costs, leaving him with a relatively modest amount each month.
“Social security is granted by Belgian law to all residents, from the most deprived to the richest.”
Aside from navigating this legal battle over benefits, Prince Laurent faces concerns about his family’s future welfare once his royal allowance ceases post his demise. With three grown children alongside British-born wife Claire Coombs to consider, these uncertainties weigh heavily on his mind.
Laurent isn’t new to controversy; labeled as the “cursed prince” due to past missteps like attending events without authorization or racking up speeding fines. Despite these blemishes on his record, he remains resolute in fighting for what he believes is rightfully his within Belgium’s intricate societal framework.
As discussions loom regarding whether an appeal shall be pursued following the recent court ruling against him; one thing is clear – even royalty has its share of challenges when it comes to navigating issues beyond their regal trappings.
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