Prior to 1993, Belgium was a unitary state with most powers concentrated in the central government in Brussels. Following constitutional changes in 1993, it shifted to a more federal form of government by devolving power to the regional governments. The change that took place gave constitutional powers to the regional governments and made them autonomous. This change was motivated by the fact that Belgium has three distinct communities; the Dutch speaking, the French speaking and the German speaking concentrated in three different regions. In order to keep such a diverse nation united, it was felt that more power needs to be given to the regional governments so that they can satisfy the needs and aspirations of the different communities.

The Belgian leaders took a different path. They recognised the existence of regional differences and cultural diversities. Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their constitution four times so as to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same country.