All Brussels political parties (with the exception of Vlaams Belang) met this Sunday, 1 February, at the initiative of a citizens’ collective bringing together representatives of the movements Respect Brussels and WeAreBrussels, as well as a broad panel of stakeholders representing employers, social services, the arts and academic communities, and neighbourhood committees across the capital.
A First in 600 Days of Negotiations
By accepting this citizens’ invitation, the parties demonstrated their willingness to see a fully empowered government take office. The organisers wish to emphasise that, by agreeing— for the first time in 600 days— to sit around the same table as parties holding markedly different visions for the future of Brussels, these political leaders chose to seek common ground in order to uphold democratic life, without renouncing their differences.
A Positive and Constructive Atmosphere
The discussions took place in a positive and composed atmosphere. The organisers consider this spirit to be essential for the future success of the negotiations.
Looking Ahead
At the conclusion of this initial conciliation meeting, the parties endorsed the principle of appointing a pair of Brussels “deminers”, one French-speaking and one Dutch-speaking.
The signatories express the hope that these deminers will be appointed in the coming days in order to restore momentum to Brussels’ democratic process.
The signatories of the citizens’ initiative thank all political representatives for their presence and constructive participation in this process. They stand ready, once appointed, to assist the two deminers and contribute positively to their mission.
Contact:
Daniel Verougstraete – +32 479 400 441
Frederik Lamote - 0472447248