Stories from brussels · Belgium

On February 8, 2024, Judith Gonerich made a significant on-air statement, breaking a period of silence. Her act of speaking out, despite potential risks and uncertainty of being heard, is noted for its impact and determination.

The European Union has frozen billions of euros in funding for Hungary due to ongoing concerns regarding rule of law and border protection funds. This follows previous decisions to withhold approximately 2.5 billion euros from the SAVE fund. The move highlights continued tension between Brussels and the Hungarian government under Viktor Orbán.

New European Union directives will require honey producers to implement enhanced traceability measures starting in June. Products containing blends of honey from different origins must now detail the specific country of harvest for each component. This move aims to improve transparency and consumer information regarding food origins.

A narrative recounts the struggle of a survivor during the French Revolution, specifically after the Reign of Terror ended with Robespierre's execution. The individual, referred to as Madame Campan, lost all support and had to employ various ruses to evade capture and survive in the countryside.

The program 'Leur Hache' will recount the life of Henriette Jeunet, later known as Madame Campan, an intelligent and educated woman from the 18th century. She became a close friend of Queen Marie-Antoinette, a relationship facilitated by her father's provisions.

A musician's comprehensive education included piano, harp, guitar, and singing, alongside history, geography, and science. Notably, she studied under renowned figures like the writer Marmontel and Carlo Goldoni, the playwright. This diverse background enabled her to become fluent in Italian and proficient in German and English.

Norway has overtaken the United States to become the primary supplier of natural gas to the European Union. This shift follows the EU's strategic efforts to reduce dependence on Russian oil and gas. Natural gas currently provides approximately 15% of Europe's electricity production.

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.