Hendrik Frank Bogaert, born on August 30, 1968, in Jabbeke, West Flanders, became a significant figure in Belgian politics because he wanted to see a united society and a focus on the people in government. Bogaert is the third child in a family of four. He went to elementary school in Jabbeke and high school in Bruges, which set the stage for his future academic success.

Bogaert went to Leuven to study economics and to Harvard Business School to get his MBA and improve his skills even more. A strong educational background helped Bogaert start a career that combined business and public service in a seamless way.

Bogaert’s political journey began in 2000 with his participation in municipal elections in Jabbeke, marking the inception of his commitment to local governance. His ascent through the ranks, from alderman to mayor, underscored his dedication to grassroots leadership. Bogaert’s tenure in the Chamber of Representatives, which commenced in 2003, saw him champion initiatives to modernise public services and foster a culture of performance-based advancement.

Hendrik’s role as State Secretary for Modernization of Public Services in 2011 further solidified his reputation as a reformer. He advocated for meritocracy and efficiency in government operations. Bogaert always believed in CD&V as a way to bring people together and make society more cohesive. He dreamed of a country where everyone worked together to make progress.

Bogaert’s leadership as party leader for the House of Representatives in West Flanders in the federal elections of May 26, 2019, exemplified his commitment to representing the interests of his constituents at the federal level. Bogaert’s time as a federal member of parliament for CD&V shows how dedicated he is to serving the people and promoting the values of unity and solidarity.

Bogaert is a devoted father of three children, focusing on the value of familial values alongside his public service endeavours.

What is the Political Party of Hendrik Bogaert?

Hendrik Bogaert’s political party was the Christian Democratic and Flemish (CD&V) party. He joined CD&V in his early political career and was a prominent member for many years. Bogaert held various positions within CD&V, including serving as a Parliament for West Flanders member since 2003 and as State Secretary for Civil Service and Modernization of Public Services from December 2011 to October 2014. He made changes to modernise public services while he was in office.

Bogaert’s membership in CD&V spanned several decades, during which he became known for his expertise in budgetary matters and his commitment to promoting a people-centred approach to governance. He rose through the party ranks, gaining recognition as a dedicated and influential figure within CD&V.

Bogaert faced support and opposition within the party. He garnered support from members who appreciated his pragmatic approach to policy-making and his focus on reforming public services. Bogaert encountered criticism from some quarters for his disagreements with certain party decisions, including CD&V’s participation in the De Croo government.

Bogaert decided to leave CD&V in December 2023, even though he had made contributions and been a leader in the party. His departure stemmed from ideological differences and a desire to pursue a different political agenda. Bogaert founded a new party called the “Reasonable Right,” positioning himself as a centrist alternative to existing political options.

The establishment of the Reasonable Right Party marked a significant chapter in Bogaert’s political career, reflecting his commitment to advancing his principles and beliefs outside the framework of CD&V. Bogaert promised to keep supporting CD&V until the end of the legislature, even though his decision to leave the party meant a break with his old party. He did it to show loyalty and honesty in the political process.

Bogaert did not become the party’s top leader when it came to leadership within CD&V. His departure from CD&V and the subsequent formation of the Reasonable Right Party indicated a divergence from the party’s direction and leadership rather than a failure to secure leadership within CD&V. CD and V Party News reveals Hendrik Bogaert’s decision to launch his political party, “Rekelijk Rechts,” signalling a significant shift in his political allegiance and reflecting ongoing debates within CD&V about its ideological direction.

What is the Official Title of Hendrik Bogaert?

Hendrik Bogaert is the official Member of Parliament for West Flanders, a position he has held since 2014. He was Mayor of Jabbeke from 2007 to 2011 and State Secretary for Civil Service and Modernization of Public Services in the Di Rupo government from 2011 to 2014 before his parliamentary role.

Some of Hendrik Bogaert’s official titles are listed below.

• Board Member, CVP-Youth: Bogaert began his political journey as a board member of CVP-Youth, where he gained early experience in party organisation and youth engagement.
• Municipal Councillor and Alderman, Jabbeke (2000-2007): Bogaert served as a municipal councillor and an alderman in Jabbeke. He spoke for his community when he was a councilman, influencing policy at the municipal level. He held administrative responsibilities as an alderman, such as finance, spatial planning, and youth affairs.
• Vice-Chairman, CD&V (2001-2003): Bogaert was appointed Vice-Chairman of CD&V, a prominent position within the party’s leadership hierarchy. He significantly impacted the party’s decisions and policies. 
• Mayor, Jabbeke (2007-2011): Bogaert held the position of Mayor in Jabbeke. He provided leadership and direction to the local government, overseeing various municipal departments and initiatives to serve the community.
• State Secretary for Civil Service and Modernization of Public Services (2011-2014): Bogaert was appointed State Secretary for Civil Service and Modernization of Public Services. He was responsible for implementing reforms to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public administration.

Why did Hendrik Bogaert Formed his New Party?

Hendrik Bogaert formed his new party, ‘Redelijk Rechts’ (Reasonable Right- Wing), due to his dissatisfaction with the direction of his former party, CD&V, especially its involvement in the De Croo government. He felt a need for a more pragmatic and centrist approach within the right-wing political spectrum, catering to individuals who hold conservative values but seek a more balanced and moderate platform. Bogaert announced the formation of Redelijk Rechts on December 19, 2023, emphasising the party’s commitment to offering an alternative for individuals disenchanted with mainstream politics.

What are Notable Accomplishments of Hendrik Bogaert?

The notable accomplishments of Hendrik Bogaert are listed below.

• Political Career Advancements: Hendrik has served as a municipal councillor in Jabbeke since 2000. He held the position of alderman for spatial planning, finance, youth, and road safety in Jabbeke from 2001 to 2006. He served as the mayor of Jabbeke from 2007 to 2011. He was elected as a member of the Parliament for West Flanders from 2003 to 2011 and again since 2014. He held the position of State Secretary for Civil Service and Modernization of Public Services from December 2011 to October 2014.
• Founding Redelijk Rechts (Reasonable Right) Party: Established the new political party ‘Redelijk Rechts’ (Reasonable Right-wing) in December 2023. Founded the party as an alternative for conservative individuals dissatisfied with mainstream politics, particularly CD&V’s direction.
• Policy Contributions: Bogaert advocated for policies focusing on civil service modernisation and public service efficiency. Promoted a more centrist and pragmatic approach within the right-wing political spectrum through the formation of Redelijk Rechts. Played a role in shaping the political landscape by challenging traditional party dynamics and offering alternative platforms for voters.
• Leadership and Advocacy: Demonstrated leadership within CD&V and later as the founder of Redelijk Rechts, showcasing his ability to navigate political challenges and promote his vision for governance. Engaged in advocacy for civil service reform, modernisation, and a more balanced right-wing political platform.
• Contributions to Local Governance: Hendrik played a significant role as an alderman and mayor in Jabbeke, contributing to community development, infrastructure, and youth initiatives.
• Strategic Initiatives: Undertook strategic initiatives to address societal challenges, foster economic development, and enhance public services locally and nationally.
• Public Engagement and Representation: Acted as a representative voice for his constituents in Parliament and local government, advocating for their interests and concerns. Engaged with the public through political campaigns, community events, and policy discussions, demonstrating a commitment to democratic principles and public service.

What are the Important News about Hendrik Bogaert?

The important news about Hendrik Bogaert are listed below.

• Hendrik Bogaert (CD&V) started his own party, Reasonable Right, which is news about Hendrik Bogaert, who has announced his party’s creation, Redelijk Rechts (Reasonable Right). He revealed plans to establish the party but indicated in a televised interview on VRT CANVAS that he is not participating in the upcoming elections. Bogaert described his party as “reasonably right-wing,” emphasising a neither radical nor centrist stance. He desired to attract individuals aligned with his nuanced views on capitalism, entrepreneurship, social policy, environmentalism, and nationalism. Bogaert intends to continue voting with the party until the end of the legislative term, despite his departure from CD&V. Known for his independent stance within CD&V and willingness to make controversial statements, Bogaert aims to carve out a distinct identity for his new political venture.
• From “unfinished business” to “non-news”: many doubts surrounding Hendrik Bogaert’s new party. News about Redelijk Rechts (Reasonable Right) was met with scepticism and criticism from political scientists Nicolas Bouteca and Carl Devos. They question the novelty of his views and the timing of his announcement, suggesting that his party struggles to make an impact given existing right-wing parties in Belgium. Bouteca compares Bogaert’s initiative to the failed revival of Lijst Dedecker, citing electoral challenges and lack of innovation as potential obstacles. Bogaert’s departure from CD&V and his history of advocating against the party line signals a break with traditional politics, but doubts persist regarding the feasibility and relevance of his new venture. Critics point out Bogaert’s wavering stance and limited parliamentary presence in recent years, questioning the substance and longevity of his political ambitions. Many see Bogaert’s exit as a defeat for CD&V and wonder what it means for his political future, even though he claims his party is not going to run in the next elections.
• “Hendrik Bogaert not candidate chairman of CD&V,” a member of CD&V, announced on Twitter that he is not running for the party’s chairman position, citing that it was too early for his ideas to take root. Bogaert, known for his right-wing stance within CD&V, had previously proposed a vision for the party to evolve into a “centre-right traditional people’s party,” emphasising integration pressure on newcomers and the retention of nuclear energy. Bogaert opted out of the candidature race despite expectations from some within CD&V for him to run, which already had seven candidates registered.
• Hendrik Bogaert (CD&V) wants a strong return policy for asylum seekers who have exhausted all legal remedies: “I want to stick my neck out.” A news article about Hanserik Bogaert, a member of CD&V, aims to address the refugee crisis by proposing an international investment in humane refugee camps to reduce the influx to Europe. Bogaert wants to change the way asylum is handled. He suggests giving them a safe place to stay in humanitarian camps instead of automatically letting people into countries where asylum is sought, possibly in neighbouring countries with conflict zones. He emphasises the need to strengthen return policies for asylum seekers who have exhausted legal remedies, proposing increased capacity for closed asylum centres to facilitate deportations. Bogaert advocates for further state reforms post-2018, focusing on socio-economic independence for Flanders and addressing issues related to transfers to Wallonia. Bogaert is determined to make his ideas more popular within the CD&V, even though he did not run for chairman. He wants the party to take a stronger stance on asylum policy and state reform.
• “Frank Casteleyn (CD&V) becomes mayor of Jabbeke instead of Hendrik Bogaert.” There is news that Frank Casteleyn, not Hendrik Bogaert, is going to be mayor of Jabbeke, according to Casteleyn. Bogaert was initially expected to replace Mayor Daniël Vanhessche, but he dropped out of the running because he wanted to continue working towards his goals in national politics. Discussions regarding the mayoral position had been ongoing since November, with Casteleyn, a CD&V councillor, ultimately chosen to take over. Casteleyn, an alderman in Jabbeke for nearly a decade, prioritises continuity while adding his touches to the role. Vanhessche remains on the municipal council, and Wim Vandenberghe fills the vacant aldermanic position.

What are the Political Ideas of Hendrik Bogaert?

Hendrik Bogaert’s political ideas are social justice, solidarity, and centre-right governance. A prominent member of Belgium’s CD&V party, Bogaert’s political ideas are rooted in Christian Democratic principles. He supports a social market economy that balances capitalism with social welfare, prioritises social cohesion and solidarity, values traditional family structures, and advocates for policies aligned with Christian ethics. Many people do not consider him very environmentally friendly, but he supports environmental policies. 

Hendrik Bogaert’s stance on asylum policy and the refugee crisis reflects a conservative approach within the CD&V party. He prioritises a stringent return policy for asylum seekers who have completed the legal process, aligning with the party’s emphasis on law and order. Bogaert’s proposal to bolster capacity in closed asylum centres for deportation underscores his commitment to enforcing immigration laws and maintaining control over migration flows, reflecting traditional conservative values of national sovereignty and security.

Bogaert’s advocacy for investing in humane refugee camps internationally demonstrates a pragmatic approach to addressing the root causes of migration. He wants to make people less likely to take dangerous trips to Europe by stressing the importance of improving conditions in refugee camps outside of Europe. The strategy aligns with CD&V’s broader focus on finding comprehensive solutions to global challenges while prioritising the interests of Belgian citizens.