Stories from Brussels · Belgium

TeleNet announced yesterday that it will discontinue its classic telecom bundles. The company's cheapest internet subscription will see an immediate price increase of 20 euros. TeleNet plans to allow customers more freedom to create customized service packages.

Researchers have developed a new DNA testing method that can collect evidence for up to five days. The resulting DNA profiles are described as purer and more accurate for comparison with reference material from male perpetrators or donors.

The European Union has passed new regulations to protect dogs and cats from mistreatment by a decisive majority. The rules mandate the microchipping and registration of animals and prohibit mutilation, specifically banning the cutting of tails and ears. New European Union regulations will mandate labeling requirements for dogs and cats to combat illegal transport from countries including Romania, Hungary, and Poland. Animal dealers and shelters must ensure animals have access to fresh water, quality food, and sufficient space. The regulation also prohibits using animals with extreme breeding traits, such as curly tails or wrinkled necks, for breeding purposes. These rules aim to improve traceability of animal origins.

European Parliament members from the Solidarity movement have nominated journalist Andrzej Poczobut for the European Peace Prize. The announcement was discussed in connection with the award's significance for human rights defenders. The source did not specify the exact date of the ceremony. The European Parliament honored Andrzej Poczobuta with a prestigious freedom award. The award was presented to highlight the situation regarding the Lukashenko regime. The broadcaster noted the prestige of the decoration in the context of current political tensions.

The European Parliament intends to include an active consent principle in a Commission proposal. Additionally, the Parliament seeks to prevent national capitals from having sole authority over the distribution of these EU funds. The plan is being discussed by leaders including Jordan Bardella, chairman of the Patriots faction. The EU Commission has passed a decision to establish a binding definition for rape. The proposal received support from German political parties including the Christian Democrats, Social Democrats, Liberals, Greens, and the Left. However, right-wing factions such as Patriots for Europe, ECR, and the AfD voted against the initiative. The European Commission must provide a position on a proposal to establish a uniform EU-wide definition of rape within three months.

Approximately 100 activists and unionists gathered at Place des Deux Chanvre in Brussels to protest pension reform. A national strike organized by the Front Commun Syndical is scheduled for May 12. Belgium's Council of Ministers has approved a pension reform agreement, moving the proposal to the Chamber of Representatives for a plenary session. Pension Minister Jan Jambon described the reform as essential to guarantee the country's financial viability. The measure faces opposition from labor unions, which have held multiple protests in recent months. The announcement comes amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the future of the Volvo plant in Ghent. The Belgian Chamber's Social Affairs Commission has approved a text for pension reform. The federal government's plan includes a penalty for those retiring too early and a bonus for those working beyond the retirement age.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that CO2 emissions have decreased by 39% since the introduction of the EU emissions trading system in 2005. The system is designed to provide an economic advantage to companies that produce little to no CO2 compared to competitors using fossil fuels. The emissions trading scheme has been in operation for over 20 years. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed a need to discuss the established system following recent criticism. Markets reacted to these discussions within 24 hours, according to Linda Kalker of the Brussels-based think tank Strategic Perspectives. This mechanism is being viewed as a way to make climate protection economically viable. The report notes that while US President Trump denies climate change, other regions are utilizing such systems.

The Expert Commission on Artificial Intelligence has recommended increased financial support for AI development within the European Union. The commission proposed the creation of a state fund totaling 300 million euros. This recommendation aims to bolster the EU's position in the AI sector. The proposal also includes calls to reduce bureaucratic hurdles within the European Union. The Commission was commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs last autumn.

The European Parliament has called on the Commission to launch a legislative initiative to protect women from sexualized violence and rape across the European Union. The European Parliament has passed a resolution requiring microchipping for dogs and cats. Senator Giulia Bongiorno, the rapporteur for the sexual violence bill, stated in an interview with Corriere della Sera that the European Parliament's pronouncement serves as an indication to proceed. The resolution follows recent incidents involving non-consensual sexual contact. The move aims to establish shared standards across the community. The European Parliament adopted a resolution requesting effective and strong sanctions for crimes of harassment and sexual violence. No specific implementation dates or enforcement mechanisms were detailed in the report. The decision aims to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful practices.

Unions and several federations are calling on Yves Copiters, the Minister for Health and Social Economy, for urgent measures regarding rising fuel prices. The groups are requesting full funding for all kilometers traveled by family assistants and social domestic workers. Minister Copiters previously stated he was prepared to implement targeted and temporary exceptional measures to assist Walloon non-market sector operators facing federal mandates. These measures aim to support workers amidst rising costs. The Socialist Trade Union (ABVV) is calling for the reversal of government measures that limit unemployment benefits to two years. Since January 1, 86,000 long-term unemployed individuals have lost their benefits due to this decision. ABVV representative Rofte Weerd stated the union hopes to achieve a full rollback of these restrictions.