1976, Master's in Law, Vrije Universiteit, Brussels. Lawyer. 1974-75, President, Liberal Student Union, Brussels; 1975-77, President, National Liberal Student Union; since 1977, member, party executive, PVV-VLD; 1977-79, National President, Liberal Youth; 1983-88, Alderman of Finance, Lebbeke; 1985-88, National Vice-President, PVV; Member, local council, Berlare; 1995-2003, Member, Flemish Parliament; 1994-95, Senator; 1999-2004, National President, VLD; 1980-94, Member, European Parliament; since 2002, Minister of State; since 2003, Member of Parliament; since 2004, current position. Professor of European Law, Vrije Universiteit, Brussels. Interests: European politics and international relations, human rights, education policy, modern art and architecture.