Stories from Belgium

EU Foreign and Security Policy Chief Spokesperson Anita Speyer stated that the United States is an partner contributing to European security and defense. Speyer noted that the deployment of US troops in Europe aligns with American interests.

The European Commission has suspended 2 million euros in funding for an exhibition following the appearance of a Russian pavilion.

The European Commission estimates the Mercosur-EU trade agreement will result in a 48 billion euro export increase for EU countries by 2040. The deal is expected to benefit sectors such as cheese and luxury wines, particularly in France. The European automotive industry is identified as a key beneficiary of the agreement. They fear increased competition from South American producers of cheap agricultural goods. The deal is described as being highly advantageous for Brazilian farmers. The deal is expected to open an enormous market and provide growth opportunities for Brazilian farmers. Wine trader Carlos Enrique stated that the deal could lead to cheaper European wines and new market opportunities with better pricing. The agreement may also allow for the export of automobiles and luxury items to South America without import duties.

The European Commission warned that a special protective mechanism will be applied to new member states if they violate internal European Union rules. Montenegro is expected to be the first country to join the bloc in a new expansion wave, followed by Albania.

The Belgian Council of Ministers validated an extension of flexi-jobs to all sectors during a meeting on April 30. This allows workers to take on complementary jobs in addition to their primary employment or for pensioners. The expansion includes the healthcare sector and the civil service. Under the new rules, individuals may also work in a company belonging to their current employer, a practice previously prohibited. The system, originally created in 2015, allows employers to hire staff for supplemental hours. An annual income maximum has been set for this system. Unions have expressed concerns that the expansion could negatively impact permanent contracts and student jobs. Federal Employment Minister David Clarinval acknowledged an impact on certain sectors but disputed the unions' characterization of the effect.

Meta responded to preliminary findings from the European Commission regarding underage users on its platforms. The company stated that Instagram and Facebook are designed for users aged 13 and older.

The European Commission has begun discussions regarding funding priorities for the upcoming seven-year budget. Negotiators are considering how to provide more flexibility for priorities such as green policy and transformation within the budget framework.

Police in Belgium faced 13,000 incidents of aggression so far this year. This averages to approximately 35 incidents per day. The source noted that the severity of these incidents is also increasing.

The Belgian Council of Ministers validated an extension of the flexijob system on April 30. Under the new rules, workers can earn a maximum of 18,000 euros per year through flexi-jobs. The mechanism will undergo a sector-by-sector evaluation one year after implementation. A parliamentary vote on the measure is expected before this summer. The move follows criticisms regarding the system's impact on stable employment and student jobs. These complementary jobs, intended to be held alongside a primary position or for pensioners, will soon be available in sectors such as healthcare and the public service. Under the new rules, workers may also perform flexi-jobs for their current employer, a practice that was previously prohibited. The Belgian Council of Ministers approved a measure to extend maternity leave for self-employed workers from 12 to 15 weeks.

The European economy is showing signs of slowing down, with GDP growth remaining nearly stagnant in the first quarter. Inflation has reached 3% according to reports. The European Central Bank has decided not to adjust interest rates.