Government of Flanders approves three social security treaties

On 18 September 2015, the Government of Flanders discussed the approval of three social security treaties between Belgium and Tunisia, Turkey and Israel respectively.

The aim of these treaties is to safeguard the rights of people falling under the social security systems of these countries by simplifying the transition from one system to another and by guaranteeing equal treatment and the retention of acquired rights. Consequently, the treaties regulate the situation of workers and self-employed people who, during their career, have switched from one system to another.

Family allowance also falls within this scope. Since the sixth state reform, this is one of the competences of Flanders. That is why such treaties must now also go through an assent procedure in Flanders. With its decision of 18 September, the Government of Flanders for the first time gives its approval in principle to social security treaties. Compulsory advice must now be sought from the Advisory Council for Welfare, Health and Family and from the Council of State on the three dossiers. The drafts of the assent act will then be submitted for approval to the Flemish Parliament.