Brussels Daily Press Review — 28 March 2026

🏛️ Politics & Budget

Brussels Parliament approves 2026 budget

The Brussels Parliament gave its final go-ahead Friday evening to the capital’s 2026 budget. The ruling majority argued it prioritised fiscal “responsibility” over austerity, while opposition parties slammed the measures as vague and result-free. S&P ratings agency meanwhile confirmed Brussels’ A rating, a signal of confidence in the region’s financial management. (Brussels Times · BX1 · RTBF)

S&P affirms Brussels’ A rating

Standard & Poor’s kept the Brussels-Capital Region’s credit rating at A with a stable outlook, citing solid governance and manageable debt. The timing, just days after parliament voted on the budget, reinforced investor confidence in the capital. (Brussels Times)

Opposition slams budget as imprecise and ineffective

During the parliamentary debate — which started an hour late due to a lack of quorum — opposition parties warned that the announced savings lacked concrete mechanisms and risked failing their targets. The government replied that “controlled spending” was the responsible path. (RTBF)

🚗 Transport & Environment

LEZ fines for older vehicles delayed

Brussels’ Low Emission Zone fines for diesel Euro 5 and petrol Euro 2 vehicles will not be enforced immediately, the region confirmed. Drivers of older, more polluting cars get a grace period before penalties kick in — a relief for many commuters who have struggled to upgrade. (RTBF)

Earth Hour 2026: Brussels monuments go dark Saturday

This Saturday evening, Brussels’ most iconic landmarks — including the Atomium and Grand Place illuminations — will switch off their lights for Earth Hour 2026. The annual WWF campaign raises awareness about climate change and energy consumption. (Brussels Times)

Motorcyclist in critical condition after Schaerbeek crash

A motorcyclist was left in critical condition following a collision with a car in Schaerbeek. Police were called to the scene and emergency services rushed the rider to hospital. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. (BX1)

🎭 Culture & Society

Ancienne Belgique opens renovated buildings — “a dynamic musical temple”

Brussels’ legendary Ancienne Belgique concert hall unveiled its freshly renovated buildings Friday, presenting an ambitious plan to become “a dynamic musical temple.” The upgrade includes improved acoustics, more accessible spaces, and a expanded programme aimed at attracting international artists and audiences. (BX1)

CPAS workers increasingly targeted by aggression

Staff at Brussels CPAS (public social welfare centres) are reporting a sharp rise in aggression and violence on the job. A BX1 investigation found workers facing verbal threats and physical incidents from clients, raising calls for better protection measures. (BX1)

Hundreds demand housing rights at Brussels event

Hundreds of people took to the streets of Brussels to demand better housing rights and protest rising rents and evictions. The event brought together activists, tenants’ unions and community groups calling for affordable housing policies and stronger tenant protections. (Brussels Times)

Brussels gelato maker crowned world’s best

A Brussels-based artisan ice cream maker has been named the best glacier in the world, drawing crowds to their shop in the city centre. The award put Brussels on the international gastronomic map and sparked queues outside the winning establishment. (RTBF)

Exhibition: street plaques tell Brussels’ history

A new exhibition at a Brussels venue explores the stories behind the city’s street name plaques — from medieval alleyways to the names of resistance fighters and everyday heroes. “De la rue au musée” invites visitors to rediscover the capital one plaque at a time. (RTBF)

Staff protest cuts at visit.brussels

Employees of the Brussels tourism agency visit.brussels staged a protest against announced budget cuts they say will hollow out the organisation’s ability to promote the capital abroad. The demonstration drew support from the cultural sector. (RTBF)

🎪 Events

BIFFF returns for 44th edition

The Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival kicks off 3 April at Brussels Expo on the Heysel, marking its 44th year. Fans of horror, sci-fi and fantasy can look forward to two weeks of premieres, previews and the festival’s signature eclectic programme. (RTBF)

Mundial Circus left without a Brussels venue

The famous Mundial Circus — a beloved Belgian institution — says it cannot find a location to set up in Brussels this season. Organisers expressed incomprehension at the lack of available or accessible sites in the capital, putting the circus’s traditional Brussels run in jeopardy. (BX1)

Inter-Homes Olympics marks 10th edition

The Inter-Homes Olympics, the social housing sector’s multi-sport competition, is back for its tenth edition. Teams from housing projects across Brussels and beyond compete in a spirit of inclusion and community. (BX1)

💼 Economy & Media

Netflix and Belgian audiovisual: FWB claims a small victory

The French-speaking Community of Belgium (Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles) secured a partial win in its push for Belgian content obligations on global streaming platforms. A new agreement with Netflix opens the door to more Belgian productions on the platform — though advocates say it falls short of binding quotas. (BX1)