Editing Monarchy of Belgium (section)

==Popular support==
Popular support for the monarchy had historically been higher in [[Flanders]] and lower in [[Wallonia]]. The generally pro-monarchy [[Catholic Party (Belgium)|Catholic Party]] and later [[Christian Social Party (Belgium, defunct)|Christian Social Party]] dominated in Flanders, while the more industrialised Wallonia had more support for the [[Belgian Labour Party]] and later [[Belgian Socialist Party|Socialist Party]]. For example, the [[Belgian monarchy referendum, 1950|1950 referendum]] saw Flanders voting strongly in favour of King Leopold III returning, whereas Wallonia was largely against. However, in recent decades these roles have reversed, as religiosity in Flanders has decreased and the King is seen as protecting the country against [[Partition of Belgium|(Flemish) separatism and the country's partition]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://deredactie.be/permalink/1.2819116|title=Walen zijn veel koningsgezinder dan Vlamingen|publisher=deredactie.be|date=15 November 2016}}</ref>