Stories from Belgium

NATO has approved a new, updated plan for building up its armed forces for the long term. The plan reflects the need for a gradual increase in both military spending and dual-use development.

The European Union has launched a new Global Health Resilience Initiative. The initiative aims to strengthen health systems amidst geopolitical challenges. Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela announced the program. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that global health targets are not being met and, in some areas, progress is reversing. This indicates a challenge in achieving international health objectives.

The European Union has officially signaled its intent to join the Special Tribunal for Russian War Crimes. The specific mechanism for joining the tribunal is still under discussion.

The European Union has stated that individual countries, rather than Brussels, should be responsible for banning LGBTQ+ conversion therapy. This stance was reported by POLITICO. This initiative aims to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful practices.

The European Commission has issued a statement in response to an attack on the Sea-Watch 5 rescue ship on May 11, 2026. The statement has drawn sharp criticism regarding the EU's reaction.

Rightwing groups within the European Parliament have decided to extend the mandate of a committee investigating NGOs that receive EU funding. The extension is for a period of six months.

A police inspector has been arrested in Brussels on suspicion of human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD is reportedly in negotiations with Stellantis to acquire the automotive group's plants in the European Union. BYD became the world's largest seller of electric vehicles last year. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is reportedly negotiating to acquire a plant in Europe from Stellantis.

Artists have organized an alternative event in Brussels to protest Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Organizers stated that the current format of Eurovision has 'no future' due to the controversy.

Montenegro anticipates that the European Commission will approve its market coupling by the end of June. This development is for integrating Montenegro's energy market with the broader European system.