Brussels is Belgium's youngest region, but this is not always reflected in its policies and design. A conference hosted by the region will see experts discuss this urban challenge in a bid to make the capital more child-friendly.
Minors account for over one-fifth of the Brussels population, and while the region has already taken steps to respond to their needs it is still quite far off from being a safe and play-friendly space for children. This poses one of the major challenges to Brussels policymakers.
"It is crucial that we constantly think about how our children grow up and how the city responds to their needs. By investing in our children and youth, we ensure the future of our region and the well-being of future generations," said Pascal Smet, State Secretary for Urban Planning who is responsible for Youth in the Flemish Community Commission.
Looking to the future
Brussels will host a three-day international conference "Child in the City" in November. This will bring together international child and urban planning experts to improve the living conditions of children in cities by sharing expertise and knowledge across borders.
"Bringing Child in the City to Brussels – the heart of Europe – will allow us to exchange and learn more about this urban challenge. It will also give us the opportunity to continue our commitment to an increasingly child-friendly Brussels."
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The conference will be organised alongside the Child in the City Foundation, whose main objective is to strengthen the position of children in cities and to promote and protect their rights.
"Investing in children is investing in the future. Children who grow up in a healthy and safe environment are more likely to become healthy and aware adults. As policymakers, it is our duty to integrate children's needs into our policies," the region's Minister-President Rudi Vervoort concluded.
