We provide an overview of the institutional framework in Belgium that is of relevance for labor market participation and retirement decision at older ages. We then describe key labor market indicators using data from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) over the period 1983‐2013 and also present trends in participation in (early‐) retirement routes. Next, we explore how the types of jobs in the country have changed over time, both in terms of their “quality” and the “quantity” of work involved.