The PIRLS 2026 project aims to provide a comprehensive overview of reading literacy among fourth-grade primary school students in Flanders, benchmarked against international standards. Building on previous PIRLS cycles, this study examines trends in reading achievement, student engagement, and instructional practices within primary education. The project employs a large-scale assessment to evaluate reading comprehension skills, complemented by contextual data on home and school environments. By analyzing the strengths and challenges of reading education in Flanders, the PIRLS 2026 study will inform policymakers, educators, and researchers on strategies to enhance literacy outcomes.