For the thirty-fifth anniversary of the Brussels Capital Region, Axelle Red, among others, came to Bozar and the Brussels anthem of ‘Brusseleir’ was presented. But there was also room for reflection on the past thirty-five years and political speeches. “You can have different opinions about that for 35 years or only 35 years in Brussels. What is certain is that the distance that has been traveled is immense,” said Parliament Speaker Rachid Madrane (PS) in his speech.
Before his speech, a video was shown showing achievements in the field of mobility, urban renewal, work and festivities in Brussels since 1989. “The international image of Brussels has been strengthened and a Brussels identity has emerged that transcends its formidable diversity.” According to Madrane, we can say that “Brussels has passed the exam” to allow the two major language communities of our country to live together peacefully.
Although there remains room for improvement, for example with citizen panels and more participation, to tackle challenges surrounding polarization, fake news and international conflict. “Let us remain vigilant against those who want to attack democracy,” said Madrane, who wants to focus on better efficiency and cooperation with the other regions.
‘Brussels residents embarrassed’
Brussels Prime Minister Rudi Vervoort (PS) formulated it more sharply, in what may be his last speech. Vervoort is not a candidate to succeed himself after the June 9 elections. He emphasized that this efficiency exercise is already underway, but is still not sufficiently known to the general public. Improving regional services to citizens and making this known should remain the ambition of the next government, says Vervoort. “Regardless of the outcome of the ballot box, I cherish the wish that there may be Brussels parties that come together to develop a project at the service of the people of Brussels. And that Brussels is not held hostage by interests that are foreign to those of the people of Brussels,” Vervoort said.
In doing so, he criticized the – mainly Flemish – ideas to reorganize Brussels. “And that people don’t tell me that Brussels is begging. Or that Brussels should merge its police zones, privatize its public services or whatever else I don’t know. I ask and hope that everyone in this country takes the development of the capital to heart, because that development has an impact on the entire country. There is a rush,” says Vervoort.
