Launched by the citizen platform Respect Brussels, the call to gather on June 9 at Place de la Bourse is gaining growing support. Dozens of organisations representing businesses, cultural institutions, and the city’s vibrant civil society have joined the initiative.
One year without a government is enough!
'Businesses and employers' organisations, arts institutions, civil society associations — the many faces of this city — we need elected officials who communicate and take responsibility. That’s what democracy is all about!', says Respect Brussels.
Brussels residents take action to break the political deadlock
Exactly one year after the elections, a group of Brussels residents — both French-speaking and Dutch-speaking — have come together under the name Respect Brussels to help break the deadlock. They are calling on everyone who loves Brussels to join them on June 9 at noon at Place de la Bourse for a civic picnic.
Support from dozens of organisations that bring the city to life
Dozens of organisations have already voiced their support, from businesses and employee organisations (Beci, Voka Metropolitan, BeCentral, …), cultural institutions (Ancienne Belgique, Kaaitheater, Réseau des Arts de Bruxelles - RAB/BKO, Beursschouwburg, Zinneke, Volta, Pilar, …), training organisations (BeCode, Groot Eiland, …) and wide network of civil society actors (Brussels’ 40 neighbourhood committees, Growfunding, CAW Brussel, Jeugd & Stad, …). The call from Respect Brussels is also backed by the network of over 400 organisations united in the platform We Still Exist / Nous existons Toujours / Wij Bestaan Nog Altijd ("We still exist"). As support continues to grow by the day, the organisers are calling on all organisations that make Brussels thrive, to join the movement and help amplify the message.
Two demands: a government — now …
“A year without a government is a slap in the face for every Brussels resident,” says Respect Brussels. Brussels needs an executive with vision, courage, and determination — and that work must begin today. Let’s get to it!
… and institutional reform
This crisis shows that Brussels’ institutional structure no longer matches the reality of the region. Brussels needs simpler institutions that bring people together instead of dividing them. "Only then can we secure a better future for the city and its residents", says Respect Brussels.
What began as a symbolic action in March 2025 — 89 minutes of silence on the steps of the Bourse — has quickly grown into a dynamic new citizen movement. The June 9 action will be a key moment to make Brussels’ voice heard.
Respect Brussels will once again gather for 89 minutes at Place de la Bourse. “But this time, we will not remain silent.” The civic picnic starts at 12pm. Organisers emphasise the welcoming, communal spirit of the event and invite all Brussels residents to come with neighbours, friends, and family. “Let’s show that Brussels is alive — and that it deserves better.”
· 📆 Monday, June 9 at 12:00 – Place de la Bourse, Brussels
· 📣 A public address will take place at 12:30, followed by a photo moment with the press at 13:00.
· 🌎 More info & participation: respectbrussels.be
· 🔗 acebook event: Click here
· 📞 Contact: info@respectbrussels.be - Frederik Lamote ( +32 472 44 72 48) - Daniel Verougstraete (+32 479 40 04 41) - Joost Vandenbroele (+32 473 53 35 37)