Single-parent families in Brussels face high poverty risk

New research from the Brussels Institute for Statistics and Analysis (BISA) reveals that single-parent families in the Brussels-Capital Region face significantly higher risks of poverty and social exclusion compared to those in Flanders or Wallonia.

There are approximately 67,718 single-parent families in Brussels, with a median annual income of €20,684—the lowest among all household types in Belgium. Consequently, over 36% of these families fall below the poverty line. The crisis disproportionately affects women, who constitute nearly 90% of single parents in the region. Many face educational barriers, with 39% holding only a lower secondary education or less, and 21% facing unemployment.

Financial instability is compounded by labor market issues, as 40% of these households report very low employment intensity. Furthermore, 14% of single-parent families experience severe material and social deprivation, struggling to afford at least seven of thirteen essential needs, including housing, heating, and internet access.