Walloon Merit
| Walloon Merit | |
|---|---|
Insignia of the order | |
| Awarded by Government of Wallonia | |
| Type | Order of merit |
| Founded | 31 March 2011 |
| Eligibility | To any natural or legal person whose talent or merit has brought or continues to bring exceptional honour to Wallonia and thus contributes significantly to its influence. |
| Status | Currently constituted |
| Grades |
|
| Post-nominals |
|
Ribbon (commander) | |
The Walloon Merit (French: mérite wallon) and the Spark of Wallonia (French: Étincelle de Wallonie) are a civilian honour for merits in the Belgian region of Wallonia. They are awarded by the Government of Wallonia to recognise individuals or organisations whose achievements bring exceptional distinction to the region. The Walloon Merit was established by decree on 31 March 2011, while the Spark of Wallonia was introduced on 12 July 2023 as a complementary distinction for young people or emerging talents aged 18 to 35.
The honours are presented annually in Namur, the capital of Wallonia, during Wallonia Day. They recognise persons whose talent, dedication, or merit contributes to the reputation and influence of Wallonia in fields directly or indirectly related to the region’s areas of competence. In exceptional circumstances, the distinctions may also be awarded outside the annual ceremony.