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Belgium

Belgium

100 articles from 2 sources

☀️ 82°
Brussels Clear sky H 100° L 80°
Democratic governanceOpen press
11.8 millionDutch, French, GermanEuro (EUR)UTC+1 (CET), UTC+2 (CEST) in summer

This week in Belgium

Belgium is grappling with significant political and social challenges this week, including a social housing scandal in Anderlecht prompting calls for an alderman's suspension and a heated budget crisis in the Walloon Parliament. Public safety remains a concern, with a survey indicating over 40% of Flemish residents feel unsafe, especially on public transport, alongside reports of LGBTQIA+-phobic violence and a study on young people's attitudes towards transgender individuals. Meanwhile, federal prosecutors have launched an investigation into alleged Belgian involvement in 'Sarajevo sniper safaris'.

Political scandalsPublic safetySocial issuesRegional governanceUrban initiatives

About Belgium

Belgium, a compact nation at the crossroads of Western Europe, is notable for its rich cultural heritage, diverse linguistic landscape, and its pivotal role as the de facto capital of the European Union. Its society and media are distinctly shaped by its three official languages, Dutch, French, and German, reflecting a unique blend of Germanic and Romance influences. This multilingual environment fosters a vibrant, yet regionally segmented, news ecosystem.

Visiting Belgium

☀️The best time to visit Belgium is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to November), offering mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful natural scenery. Summer (June to August) is popular for festivals but can be more crowded and expensive.
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Grand-Place, Brussels A UNESCO World Heritage site, this central square is renowned for its opulent guildhalls, the stunning Town Hall, and vibrant seasonal events.
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Historic Centre of Bruges Often called 'the Venice of the North,' Bruges captivates visitors with its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
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Graslei and Korenlei, Ghent These scenic medieval trading quays along the Leie River in Ghent are lined with historic guild houses, offering a charming backdrop for boat tours and strolls.
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Atomium, Brussels An iconic and futuristic landmark, the Atomium was originally built for Expo 58 and offers panoramic views of Brussels.
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Ardennes Forest This region of rugged hills, dense forests, and winding rivers provides excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring charming villages and castles.
💡Belgium boasts an efficient public transportation network, particularly trains, making inter-city travel convenient; many cities are also highly walkable.

Media landscape

Belgium's media market is characterized by a free press with both public and private outlets, operating across its French and Dutch-speaking regions. Media ownership is concentrated among a few major groups in each linguistic area, influencing content and reach.

Press languagePrimarily Dutch and French, with a small German-language daily and English-language online news outlets.
Public/state influenceLimited

To gain a comprehensive understanding of Belgian news, it is advisable to consult both Dutch and French language outlets, as they often reflect regional perspectives.

Sources we track 2

La Libre Belgique Leans right of centerEstablished VRT NWS CentristEstablished