Stories from Brussels · Belgium

Young artist Teddy Baer, a drummer by training and a fan of rap and French chansons, will perform in Belgium. He is scheduled to appear at Le Botanique in Brussels on June 9th and at Francophonie in Spa during the summer.

RTBF La Premiere featured recommendations for graphic novels and films. Cindy recommended 'Le Complexe' by Lucie Albrecht, a graphic novel about a resort where cosmetic surgery is taken to the extreme, exploring themes of self-worship and commodification. Arkady recommended 'Lovecraft' by H.P. Lovecraft, a film about a woman investigating an abattoir at night.

European Union officials are considering a new system of 'own resources' to fund the bloc's budget, potentially including new revenue streams. This discussion aims to ensure sufficient funding for key policies like the Common Agricultural Policy and cohesion funds, which are considered vital for Europe's identity and development. Two major concepts for the European Union's future are being debated: a Union of Nations, characterized by loose economic cooperation, and a United States-like federal state. The European Union is facing a potential shift away from Net Zero policies, with concerns that green initiatives might be reversed. In Germany, electric car manufacturers are reportedly fearing disaster, while a party dedicated to defending motorists has entered government in the Czech Republic. This trend is causing apprehension among environmental campaigners.

The Jammin Jet festival in Brussels will feature a concert by Jamaican artist Clinton Furan, former musician of The Gladiators. The event, taking place at the Parc de la Jeunesse, will also include performances by pianist Vincent Roiard and an accordionist. The festival aims to create a convivial and supportive atmosphere with various themed villages.

The European Union has demanded that Russia immediately cease all attacks on nuclear facilities in Ukraine and return full control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to Ukraine. The EU stated that Russia would be held responsible for endangering public safety and would have to compensate for damages, emphasizing the critical need for nuclear safety during armed conflict. The European Union issued a statement marking the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster.

Aldi store staff in Belgium have initiated spontaneous protests against the company's decision to open stores on Sundays. Employees learned of the directive late last week, leading to immediate action. The protests highlight a conflict between management's operational plans and employee concerns. Approximately 100 protesters gathered Thursday evening in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Brussels. The demonstration was organized by Global Summit and Greenpeace Belgium following the arrest of about 175 participants from a new humanitarian flotilla by the Israeli military. Additional protests in support of the flotilla occurred in Ghent and Antwerp to demand international law compliance.

European leaders are discussing the necessity of building a composite European pillar within NATO due to increasing American uncertainty. This strategic shift focuses on strengthening European defense capabilities and leveraging new technologies to address evolving security challenges. The move aims to ensure regional stability amidst shifting geopolitical alliances. This figure applies to core budgets excluding special funds. Total expenditures are expected to rise to 543 billion euros. This represents an increase of approximately 13 billion euros compared to the current year. Government sources stated the increase is driven primarily by additional defense requirements. NATO partners have decided to secure 3.5% for defense in the medium term. Germany has reached 2.3% for the first time since the end of the Cold War. Belgium reported a 59% increase in military spending within one year.

The Flemish government is establishing a commission to identify and return artworks stolen from Jewish families during World War II. Minister of Culture Caroline Gené stated the initiative aims to address millions of displaced works across Europe and Flanders. The commission will investigate pieces held in private homes and museums. The Flanders region of Belgium has established a permanent commission to oversee the return of art looted during the Nazi era. The move aims to formalize the restitution process for historical assets.

A formal ban on the import of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) via short-term contracts took effect on April 25. The European Commission has recommended that residents reduce car travel and limit air travel to essential needs due to rising fuel costs. Gasoline and diesel prices have increased sharply across Europe during this period. Slovakia and Hungary are opposing the European Union's planned ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports. Hungary has filed a similar lawsuit with the EU court. This stoppage is the result of an EU regulation targeting maximum annual LNG contracts signed with Russian suppliers after mid-June of last year. The restriction will affect gas delivered via pipelines currently reaching Europe through Turkey. The report notes that Europe is facing challenges in filling storage facilities for the winter season.

The Belgian government has released 15 million euros to support national defense initiatives. This funding is part of a new contract aimed at strengthening the country's military capabilities. The allocation follows recent discussions regarding regional security and defense spending. The funding aims to scale up the production of ammunition and missiles for Ukraine. This funding includes provisions for the procurement of drones. The procurement process is reportedly taking place within Europe. Brussels has allocated 6 billion euros to support Kyiv's budgetary needs. The source noted that much of the production for such equipment occurs within Europe. The report mentioned that many programmers involved in these sectors are physically located in Europe. The funds are intended to cover budgetary needs and the acquisition of combat equipment.