Stories from Belgium

The European Union is investigating Meta for failing to properly assess the risks associated with children under 13 using Instagram and Facebook. Meta will review the EU's investigation documents and respond to the preliminary conclusions. The order stems from investigations into the company's data privacy and child safety practices. This decision addresses concerns over how the company handles child safety. Meta is facing the second phase of a trial in New Mexico, which begins May 4th and is expected to last three weeks. Meta Platforms is under scrutiny from the European Union regarding its child safety policies. Meta has been ordered to implement specific measures following a lawsuit by the New Mexico Attorney General, which found the company intentionally harmed children's mental health and concealed information about child exposure on its platforms.

Michael Jackson canceled a concert in Belgium in August 1997 due to being upset by the death of Princess Diana. Approximately 5,000 fans were present and disappointed by the last-minute cancellation.

The new Lenovo Legion gaming phone has been released without the flagship chip used by its competitors. This decision impacts its performance capabilities compared to other high-end gaming devices.

Malaysia and the European Union are working to strengthen their economic ties.

The EU Commission published a list of counter-tariffs on Friday evening in response to US-imposed tariffs. The EU is considering a new, previously unused anti-coercion instrument that could impose restrictions on US companies operating within the EU.

The European Union has reached a compromise on trade with the United States, which some Europeans accused Ursula von der Leyen of conceding to Donald Trump. Japan and South Korea have obtained similar agreements.

A trade agreement between the European Union and five South American nations has been applied provisionally since yesterday. The EU Commission has indicated a strong response, stating it is unacceptable if the United States violates the trade agreement. The EU warned it could respond to protect EU interests if the US breaches the deal. The US and EU had previously agreed to a 15% tariff rate on EU imports, including automobiles, in July of last year. This warning indicates potential trade disputes between the two entities. The European Commission stated it will reserve all options to protect its interests during ongoing trade negotiations with Iran. Iran has submitted a new negotiation draft to the US, which includes key adjustments. US President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the new proposal but indicated a willingness to reach an agreement with Iran.

Belgian parents are facing a childcare crisis as crèche places are not being renewed, leaving them with insufficient time to find alternatives.

New car and truck tariffs proposed by the United States are weighing on transatlantic relations. The EU spokesperson affirmed the US role in European security, despite the trade tensions. The EU Commission is expected to take corresponding retaliatory measures on specific US export categories to the EU based on the current situation. The US also aims to achieve strategic goals in the Middle East and use high tariffs globally to 'shear the sheep,' advancing its economic strategy. The EU has stated it will consider countermeasures if the tariffs are implemented. The US is threatening to impose 25% tariffs on imported cars from the EU. The EU is considering counter-measures against US tariffs, and the trade dispute between the EU and US is escalating. Europe is reacting to American auto tariffs.

A shortage of childcare places exists in Wallonia-Brussels, with one in three families unable to find a spot when needed. These facilities play a social role beyond basic care.