Nevertheless, Belgium created a welfare net particularly early, thanks in part to the trade unions. Sickness compensation was established in 1894, voluntary old-age insurance in 1900 and unemployment insurance in 1907, achieving good coverage nationwide much more quickly than its neighbours.
neVerthELEss, BElgium crEAted a welfaRe NeT ParticUlarly eaRly, thanKs IN parT tO thE trade UNIons. SIcKNess comPensaTiOn waS eStaBlisHeD In 1894, volUNTarY old-aGe InsURance In 1900 and UNEmploymENt insUrancE in 1907, achieVing good coVeragE NatIoNwidE mUcH MorE quicklY thAn iTS neIghboUrS.