Stories from Belgium

The European Parliament voted 632 to 15 in favor of a position to guarantee passengers the right to bring a small personal item, such as a bag or backpack, on board aircraft free of charge.

The European Parliament is discussing a program to diversify energy sources within the European Union. Under the proposed program, support levels for companies with high electricity consumption will increase from 50% to a maximum of 70% of eligible electricity costs. Overall, the aid may cover up to half of a company's total electricity consumption. The President of the European Commission has advocated for this diversification in the European Parliament. The European Union plans to increase investment in the United States by 600 billion USD.

Hungarian Prime Minister-designate Peter Maddiard met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels to discuss the release of billions in European subsidies.

The European Union has decided to implement a tax on CO2 emissions for households using gas heating starting January 1, 2028. Energy expert Thierry Bross noted that while the goal is decarbonization, the move is a political choice that will increase energy costs.

The slowdown of the European Union enlargement process has produced three negative consequences, according to Fassino. Candidate countries are slowing necessary reforms and convergence with European standards due to the delay in Brussels.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented a project focused on strengthening EU external borders and drone defense. The initiative aims to establish a protective barrier against possible incursions.

The European Union intends to introduce new legislation to better protect dogs and cats from exploitation. An estimated 140 to 150 individuals or entities may be affected by these changes. An estimated 140,000 to 150,000 puppies are exported annually, primarily to Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. Under the proposal, maintaining mass breeding operations would become a criminal offense starting in January 2027. Veterinary office head Martin Rudi stated that the veterinary office should receive increased powers to inspect suspicious operations. The European Union plans to introduce mandatory microchipping and registration requirements for dogs across the entire continent following years of transition periods. Currently, microchipping is only required in certain German cities and states, whereas Slovakia already imposes fines on breeders and owners for non-compliance.

Two individuals received a maximum sentence of 30 years for the death of a nine-year-old boy in Gent. The boy died three years ago following weeks of abuse, after which his body was dumped in water.

The Belgian Ministry of Defense announced that the traditional tank column will be absent from this year's military parade. This measure was reportedly taken due to fears of Ukrainian drone attacks. The parade is expected to proceed without heavy military equipment.

The Flemish Bar Association has held the Belgian state accountable for conditions at the Ghent prison. The organization reported that inmates are held in unsafe, unhygienic, and inhumane conditions.