Belgian Prince Laurent's request for social security benefits in addition to his substantial royal allowance has been dismissed by a court. The younger brother of King Philippe, Prince Laurent received a staggering €388,000 (£295,850; $376,000) from state funds last year. He argued that his royal duties, combined with his efforts running an animal welfare charity for a decade, justified his entitlement to social security.
Stating he was motivated by "principle," not financial need, the 61-year-old prince sought benefits that he believed were available to all residents. "When a migrant comes here, he registers; he has a right to social security," he commented to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, drawing parallels between his situation and that of immigrants.
However, a Brussels court ruled against Laurent, clarifying that he cannot be classified as either self-employed or an employee. Despite acknowledging that the prince might qualify for a pension, the judge pointed to legal gaps that rendered such benefits unattainable.
Laurent's lawyer, Olivier Rijckaert, defended the prince's request as symbolic, stressing that social security should be available to all Belgian residents regardless of wealth. He highlighted that Laurent's allowance predominantly covers the salary of his assistant and travel expenses, leaving him with only about €5,000 (£4,300; $5,500) monthly, without access to social security perks like medical reimbursements.
The prince, who is the father of three, has raised concerns about his family's future, especially considering the royal allowance will be reduced posthumously. Following the court's ruling, Laurent is evaluating whether to appeal the decision, with the initial hearing for his claim taking place in November 2024.
Known as the "cursed prince," Laurent has faced public scrutiny for various incidents in the past, including a temporary reduction in his allowance after he attended a Chinese embassy event without government approval. He has also attracted controversy for past speeding offenses and visits to Libya during Gaddafi's rule.
Stating he was motivated by "principle," not financial need, the 61-year-old prince sought benefits that he believed were available to all residents. "When a migrant comes here, he registers; he has a right to social security," he commented to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, drawing parallels between his situation and that of immigrants.
However, a Brussels court ruled against Laurent, clarifying that he cannot be classified as either self-employed or an employee. Despite acknowledging that the prince might qualify for a pension, the judge pointed to legal gaps that rendered such benefits unattainable.
Laurent's lawyer, Olivier Rijckaert, defended the prince's request as symbolic, stressing that social security should be available to all Belgian residents regardless of wealth. He highlighted that Laurent's allowance predominantly covers the salary of his assistant and travel expenses, leaving him with only about €5,000 (£4,300; $5,500) monthly, without access to social security perks like medical reimbursements.
The prince, who is the father of three, has raised concerns about his family's future, especially considering the royal allowance will be reduced posthumously. Following the court's ruling, Laurent is evaluating whether to appeal the decision, with the initial hearing for his claim taking place in November 2024.
Known as the "cursed prince," Laurent has faced public scrutiny for various incidents in the past, including a temporary reduction in his allowance after he attended a Chinese embassy event without government approval. He has also attracted controversy for past speeding offenses and visits to Libya during Gaddafi's rule.
