Belgium/Society

Society in Belgium

An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population
11.8M(2023)
Population Growth
0.9%(2023)
Fertility Rate
1.47(2023)
Death Rate
9.4 per 1k(2023)
Net Migration
+36.2K(2024)

Public Health

Coming Soon
Life Expectancy
82.4 years(2023)
Under-5 Mortality
3.6 per 1k(2023)
Maternal Mortality
4 per 100k(2023)
Health Expenditure
10.8%(2022)

Education & Human Capital

Coming Soon
Primary Enrollment
98.8%(2017)
Secondary Enrollment
142.9%(2022)
Tertiary Enrollment
83.6(2022)
Education Expenditure
6.4%(2021)

Infrastructure & Connectivity

Coming Soon
Internet Users
94.6%(2023)
Access to Electricity
100%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
100%(2022)
Urban Population
11.6M(2023)
Rural Population
213.5K(2023)

Current Social Overview of Belgium

A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.

  • Belgium has an estimated population of 11.8M
    2023
    , with a modest annual growth rate of 0.9%
    2023
    , suggesting a mature demographic transition with stable, but limitated, population increase. The critically low fertility rate of 1.5 births per woman
    2023
    presents severe demographic challenges, including accelerated population aging and contraction, impacting economic and social systems. Positive net migration of approximately 36K individuals annually (or 3.1 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    contributes to population stability and growth.
  • Regarding public health, a life expectancy of 82.4 years
    2023
    demonstrates exceptional health outcomes in the nation, positioning it among the world's healthiest populations. Concurrently, healthcare system effectiveness is further validated by favorable maternal and child health outcomes, reflected in a child mortality rate (under 5 years) of 3.6 per 1,000 live births
    2023
    and a maternal mortality rate of 4 per 100,000 live births
    2023
    . These outcomes are supported by a substantial health investment, with 10.8% of GDP allocated to healthcare expenditure
    2022
    .
  • the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 99% primary enrollment
    2017
    and 143% secondary participation
    2022
    , ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by robust public investment, with 6.4% of GDP dedicated to education spending
    2021
    , underscoring a strong commitment to human capital development.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, as a highly urbanized society with 98% of the population residing in urban areas
    2023
    , the country benefits from concentrated economic activity, efficient service delivery, and innovation potential. Furthermore, infrastructure modernization is highly advanced, with near-universal electricity access and high digital connectivity (95% internet penetration
    2023
    ), strategically positioning the country for robust participation in the global digital economy.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

Immigration is a key factor in stabilizing the population and offsetting low native birth rates, supporting economic continuity.

Public Health System

Sustained, high investment in healthcare underpins the country's excellent life expectancy and human development outcomes.

Human Capital Formation

Educational attainment is a direct driver of economic innovation and global competitiveness. Investment in education is key to unlocking human potential.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

A highly urbanized, digitally connected society creates a strong foundation for service-based industries and global market access.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.