Belgium

Belgium shows progressing readiness, with important strengths but continued gaps across the system. Its strongest results are in Governance (80, 90th percentile), Innovation (76, 96th percentile) and Human Capital (69, 98th percentile).

Dimension scores cluster tightly, showing the system operates with balanced readiness. High internet adoption enables broad participation in digital learning and innovation. Strong tertiary enrollment expands future talent pipelines and strengthens national innovation potential.

Strong R&D funding and a sizable research workforce keep the innovation pipeline active, supporting the system’s capacity to adapt. Policy and regulatory teams coordinate effectively, keeping reforms aligned and providing the stability needed for long-term educational planning. Girls outperform boys in secondary pathways, adding pressure to address male dropout risks.

Regionally, Belgium leads most clearly in Innovation, sitting well above the peer average.

Areas with room to grow: School Access and Gender Parity (62, 56th percentile). These dimensions sit close to global norms and could accelerate quickly with targeted investment.