Stories from Belgium

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.

A rally car crashed into a tree during an event. The driver and navigator reportedly escaped the accident without injuries. The specific dynamics of the accident are currently unknown.

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.

The European Commission can immediately act to declare US embargo laws against Cuba illegal. This action would target legislation that penalizes European companies for trading with countries under US sanctions. The move could be executed rapidly following the adoption of a resolution. The source argues that the EU must not be constrained by US extraterritorial legislation or the US dollar. This move is described as a strong political signal to be presented to the Assembly. The resolution aims to address the impact of US legislation on European sovereignty.

The European Commission is scheduled to examine a new bill tomorrow aimed at implementing retaliatory measures against the United States. The legislation seeks to allow the European Union to apply countermeasures to avoid complying with certain American laws. The proposal will move from the Commission of European Affairs to the National Assembly before potentially reaching the European Commission. The source noted that rapid action is required to avoid assuming the costs of US policies. The European Commission may move to declare US embargo laws against Cuba illegal. This action could involve decreeing laws that penalize European companies for trading with countries under US sanctions. The source stated that the Commission can act immediately to counter US extraterritorial legislation and the use of the dollar to impose laws on the rest of the world.

The European Union and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding on April 28, 2026. The agreement establishes a critical minerals partnership between the two entities.

Federal Minister of Consumer Protection Rob Beenders has launched an investigation into new rates from telecom operator TeleNet. The operator is increasing its cheapest internet subscription by 20 euros. Beenders aims to determine if TeleNet can justify the price hike. The investigation follows reports that customers may face higher costs overnight.

Demand for Nazi-era art has risen following the re-election of Donald Trump. A gallery located in Benelux operates both online and physically to supply this art. One collector, who requested anonymity, noted that finding insurers for Nazi-era collections is difficult. One gallery owner, who requested anonymity, noted that his collection of Nazi art cannot find an insurer. The gallery is identified as German Art Gallery.