It takes time to figure out a city and putting your finger on just what makes a place special requires a sensibility that comes with time and an active interest in the social currents that shape the human environment.
My own appreciation of Brussels has been acquired through engaging with various cultural happenings, around 20,00 daily steps through the city's many neighbourhoods, and obviously being immersed in local affairs throughout working hours. It's been quite a crash course in what makes the capital tick and I find myself frequently contrasting things here to other major cities.
Although all urban spaces have similarities, it's more in the peculiarities that we see how Brussels stands apart. For all my efforts to get my head around this strange place I have come to call home, my experience here is limited – especially compared to the intimate knowledge of life-long residents who have witnessed the city develop.
So I was fortunate to speak to the eminent writer Geert van Istendael, who has spent his career putting Brussels under the microscope and is better qualified than most to explain what makes the city unique, what Brussels does well, and what needs to be improved. Whilst his insight was underpinned by a clear love of his hometown, this did not preclude criticism for developments – most notably in the political arena – that could spell bad news for the communities that live here.
In particular, van Istendael cautioned against grand projects that might divert public funds from more meaningful (if less eye-catching) initiatives to build a city that delivers for residents, rather than visitors. It's a viewpoint informed by the writer's conviction that Europe's social security systems are the great achievement since peace on the continent was secured.
As such, he urges judicious spending that will above all benefit the local community. He was particularly critical of politicians who impose their visions on Brussels without engaging with residents – a heavy-handed approach that has pitched locals against projects that ostensibly aim to improve their neighbourhood.
2024 is a decisive year for politics on the international level, but municipal elections will open the door to new policies closer to home. As campaigns gather momentum and manifestos are announced, we would be interested to know what are the most important issues for you? Do you agree with van Istendael or are we missing what makes Brussels great?
Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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