The King of the Belgians has used his annual Christmas Eve speech to condemn the ‘cruel and senseless’ war in Ukraine, as the conflict is set to carry on into 2023.
In his address to the nation, His Majesty said that the people of Ukraine are fighting for their freedom and security, as did their ancestors in conflict of the past.
He went on to thank the citizens of Belgium who have opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees, saying: “All over the country, our fellow citizens have spontaneously opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees.
“I would like to thank all those who work to take in refugees and integrate them into our society. Especially at the start of winter, when our reception network is under pressure.”
Delivering his speech in French, Dutch and German, The King said despite the challenges facing society, they will find the answers.
King Philippe’s Christmas Eve speech in full
Ladies and gentlemen,
We are coming to the end of a year that has tested and upset us all.
After the Covid crisis, we were hoping for a return to normal. But then came the conflict in Ukraine, a cruel and senseless war that claims to replace the force of law with the law of force.
This violence which claims so many innocent victims touches our hearts. This conflict reminds us of a past that we thought was gone forever. Our ancestors fought for their freedom and security, often at the cost of their lives. Today, men and women bravely fight in Ukraine for the same ideals. We will continue to support them.
To this tragedy have been added the energy crisis and high inflation, which threaten our prosperity. For many of our fellow citizens, electricity, heating and food bills have become a daily concern. This precariousness is a great source of concern.
Just like climate change, the consequences of which are already being felt in Belgium. After the deluge and floods in the summer of 2021, an unprecedented drought hit our country.
All of these crises can discourage us and lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety. We must be able to hear them, and restore hope to those who lose courage.
The challenges we face have no simple answers. But we will find answers, thanks to our creativity and our perseverance.
There are good reasons to believe in the future.
In Belgium, we are lucky to live in a democratic society which – even if it is not perfect – remains solid. A society in which support measures have been gradually put in place, safety nets for those who need them most.
Around us, we see a lot of commitment and gestures of solidarity.
All over the country, our fellow citizens have spontaneously opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees. I would like to thank all those who give the best of themselves to promote the accommodation and integration of refugees. Especially at the start of winter, when our reception network is under pressure.
But also all those who are involved on a daily basis in supporting people in precarious situations, the sick or people living with a disability.
Our society has a great sense of responsibility. I am impressed to see how present it is among young people as well.
Many of us have already adapted our behavior to reduce our energy consumption and our ecological footprint.
Finally, the story carries a message of trust. It teaches us that we are capable of overcoming the most difficult crises – if we do it together. Indeed, our greatest wealth are the links we forge.
More than ever, every act we take, however small, every gesture of kindness, every attention to the planet, makes a difference.
This should give us courage – and hope.
Ladies and gentlemen, The Queen and I hope that the new year will bring us peace – in the world, in Europe, in our society and in our hearts.
I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
