Several organisations involved in Belgium's cultural sector plan to lodge an appeal with the Council of State next week against the new coronavirus measures, which have effectively closed the sector down.
The move was announced on Sunday during a protest held by the sector, Belga News Agency reports.
Cinemas, theatres and cultural centres have been ordered to close doors but many have labelled this unfair treatment as other sectors (such as hospitality) were largely untouched by the new, stricter measures.
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Various culture houses and other initiators have joined forces to reverse the measures, basing their argument on the principle of equality. While the appeal is still being drafted, its submission is expected this week.
Supporters of the appeal say the cultural sector has already made considerable investments in order to continue operating safely.
They are also urgently asking for a long-term framework that is workable and profitable, alongside support measures.
Appeals elsewhere
Earlier this week, the French-speaking Human Rights League also announced that it would submit an urgent appeal to the Council of State.
Recrea Belgium, which represents bowling alleys, is likewise going to the Council of State to challenge the compulsory closure of bowling alleys specifically. They cite discrimination and point out that other sports can continue. They add that bowling is also considered an official competition.
