Half of Belgians See the US as a Rival

A study conducted in Belgium revealed that about half of the population views the US as a rival, while only 10% consider it an ally.

Scraper SystemJune 02, 2026, 07:12 PM

A new public opinion survey conducted in Belgium showed a sharp shift in the public's view of the United States. According to the survey, about half of the participants now consider the United States a rival; only 10% see the US as an ally. The annual study called De Stemming was prepared by researchers from the University of Antwerp and Université Libre de Bruxelles. The research examined Belgium's views on international security and global powers. The research team noted that this year's results are particularly striking because international security emerged as a prominent issue in the survey for the first time. The study was conducted in March. The timing of the survey may have influenced the results. The research was carried out immediately after US and Israeli attacks on Iran. At that time, potential disruptions and price increases in the global energy supply were widely discussed. The survey also included perceptions of China. The proportion of those who see China as a rival ranged between 40% and 44%. In contrast, very few Belgians described China as an ally; many participants chose neither ally nor rival for China. Nevertheless, concerns about Beijing persist. About 60% of participants believe that a military attack by China on Taiwan is likely in the near future. Belgians feel relatively safer regarding their own country. In Flanders, 12% of participants, and in Wallonia, 21%, think Belgium could face a direct military attack. The survey also showed strong support for Europe becoming more independent in defense and economic areas. More than 80% of participants argued that Europe should be militarily self-sufficient. A similar trend emerged on the economic front. The majority of participants supported Europe responding more strongly to US trade measures and tariffs. There is also a clear sensitivity to foreign influence in Belgian domestic politics. About 90% of participants said the US should not interfere in Belgium's internal affairs. This stance aligns with debates surrounding recent statements by the US Ambassador to Belgium. Despite skepticism toward the US, Belgian public opinion continues to broadly support NATO membership. About 80% believe Belgium should remain in the alliance under all circumstances. Many participants see NATO not as a tool of US influence but as a common European security shield.