Belgium’s capital is facing a shortage of 9,000 to 12,000 student rooms, according to Brik, the organisation for Dutch-speaking students in Brussels. Meanwhile, rent is soaring, causing meaning many students to reconsider their studies. That shortage will only continue to grow, De Morgen reports.
There are currently around 100,000 students in Brussels, from Dutch speakers and Francophones to international students. Brik’s director, Jurgen Ral, says they only expect that number to grow. “Our expectation is that another 30,000 to 54,000 students will be here by 2030,” he says.
That means Brussels needs an extra 20,000 to 55,000 new student rooms by 2030, though Ral acknowledges that the actual number depends on variable factors. Still, “the problem coming our way might be a lot bigger than many people expected,” he says.
On top of the shortage, Brussels has always been among Belgium’s most expensive student cities. The average price for a room in Brussels is €450, including bills, while a studio is €550. But because of the high demand, prices are increasing.
Chaymae Safir (23), who is doing a Master's in law, told De Morgen that finding an affordable room was way easier three years ago. “Back then I found places for €340 plus €60 bills, now the rent starts at €420 with an added €80 due to rising energy prices.”
It has become difficult to find a place to live, especially for those whose parents don’t work or receive a scholarship.
Democratisation of education under threat
Safir grew up in a large family in Limburg, meaning it is impossible for her to commute - that would be four hours of travel per day. “Because there are five of us at home, it is also not an option for me to study at home, especially not during exam season,” she says.
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Many students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, struggle with this. “They have to take on a student job to make ends meet, they can’t afford to live in a room, or even have to drop out because of the increasing costs.”
Bart Geelen, Head of Student Housing at the VUB (Free University of Brussels), agrees that this is problematic. “The democratisation of education is under threat,” he says.
On Friday, around 30 VUB students stood up against the high prices in a protest, using tents and cardboard boxes to build a mock “student housing village” in front of the rectorate of the VUB.
“Due to the high rental prices, not everyone has the opportunity to study anymore,” students told Bruzz.
