The language law
The language law states that the 19 municipalities in the Vlaamse Rand are in the Dutch language area. The official language there is Dutch.
The Belgian language law came into being in 1962-3 as a result of an agreement between Dutch- and French-speakers. It divides Belgium into four language areas: the Dutch, French and German-speaking areas and the bilingual Brussels-Capital area. In this last area, which comprises the 19 Brussels municipalities, there are two official languages, Dutch and French.
This division into language areas is based on the principle of territoriality. This principle lays down that regarding specific matters the local language is to be used as the official language. In Flanders this official language is Dutch. In their private lives everyone may use whichever language they choose. The language law only applies to the official language used in specific situations: public authorities and administration, court cases, education and relations between employers and employees. |
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