Molenbeek – European Capital of Culture 2030

June 11, 2025 by

Beci Community

Since 2021, Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 (MB2030) has been competing for the title of European Capital of Culture 2030, alongside Bruges, Kortrijk, Ghent, Leuven, Namur and Molenbeek.

The participatory, inclusive and pro-active approach of MB2030 has enabled the city to reach the second selection phase. The cities of Ghent, Kortrijk and Bruges failed to convince the European jury. Only Leuven, Namur and Molenbeek are in the final phase.

The jury's report (see attachment 1) is particularly encouraging in terms of Molenbeek's innovative and creative approach and the work it has accomplished over the last three years.

This work was brought together in an initial bidbook submitted to the European jury, which assessed this document (see attachment 2).

There are several specific arguments why it is essential for Molenbeek — and by extension Brussels — to be elected European Capital of Culture in 2030, especially at this particular time. We list the most important criteria below and also attach an economic study (see attachment 3), carried out at the end of Leeuwarden's year as European Capital of Culture (ECoC).

In its reports and presentations, the European Commission speaks of a return on investment of 3 to 6 times, depending on the factors taken into account, including additional turnover in the cultural, creative and artistic sectors, as well as in tourism and the media. It also includes raising the city's international profile, stimulating creativity in the labour market and strengthening the cultural infrastructure. In the case of Molenbeek, this includes the importance of diversity, entrepreneurship and social cohesion for Belgium and Europe. In concrete terms, the evaluation reports of former European Capitals of Culture mention economic spin-offs ranging from €180 to €350 million.

Growth in tourism: The title of European Capital of Culture often leads to a significant increase in tourism. In Molenbeek, this could be expressed through ethnic design and fashion initiatives. For example, after being designated ECoC in 2010, the city of Turku (Finland) saw a 20% increase in tourist arrivals over the previous year. Pilsen saw a 15% increase in the three years prior to its ECoC year.

Job creation: The creative and cultural sector, as well as socio-cultural events, can stimulate job creation. In Molenbeek, this could mean jobs in the CCI (cultural and creative industries), integrating diversity and the inclusion of people who are far from employment. In Pécs (Hungary), ECoC 2010 created around 500 new jobs in the cultural and service sectors.

Strengthening cultural infrastructures: Being an ECoC often leads to major investment in cultural infrastructures. In Molenbeek, this includes the Brasserie Van den Heuvel and Kanal. For example, the renovation of the National Theatre in Timisoara (Romania) was completed in time for its ECoC year in 2023.

Community involvement: ECoC events usually involve local communities, fostering a sense of pride and belonging. Molenbeek's centre of diversity can positively influence Brussels and the whole of Belgium. European cities comparable to Molenbeek demonstrate that a young, diverse and creative population can become an ECoC. In Marseille-Provence in 2013, more than 1,000 community events were organised, mobilising thousands of residents.

Urban regeneration: ECoC designation often accelerates urban regeneration projects. Molenbeek is home to industrial complexes such as Belvue and Delhaize, which can benefit from ECoC status through manufacturing and creative spaces. In Liverpool (2008) and Rijeka (2020), for example, former industrial areas have been transformed into dynamic cultural districts, attracting new businesses and residents.

Improving public spaces: Cities are investing in improving public spaces to host cultural events. Molenbeek has parks and public spaces that would benefit from such a programme. Riga 2014 or Wrocław 2016 have revitalised several parks and public squares, improving the quality of urban life.

Strengthening international profile: The title of European Capital of Culture strengthens a city's international profile, gives its citizens confidence and pride in what has been achieved collectively, and encourages sustainable tourism and investment. Molenbeek, with its diverse base, needs European attention to consolidate its place as a city with a young, creative and inclusive population. Donostia-San Sebastián 2016 saw continued growth in tourism and economic investment several years after its ECoC year, as well as programmes to overcome issues relating to the place of cultural and linguistic minorities.

Cultural heritage: Cultural programmes initiated as part of an ECoC often leave a lasting heritage, with events becoming yearly occurrences. For example, the “Zinneke” parade in Brussels in 2000, the Rotterdam Summer Carnival in 2002, and the Pilsen Festival of Lights, launched during its ECoC year in 2015, continue to attract visitors every year.