Brussels Daily Press Review

3 April 2026 · 🌟 Manneken Pis

🏛️ Politics & Security

Easter Weekend: Belgium’s Roads Among the Deadliest in Europe

Belgian roads are historically among the most dangerous in Europe during the Easter weekend, and authorities are warning drivers to exercise extreme caution as the holiday getaway begins. The message comes as part of a broader road safety campaign, with extra police checks and calls for sober driving across the country. (BX1)

Council of State Slams Plan to Expand Flexi-Jobs Across Belgium

Belgium’s Council of State has issued a sharp critique of the federal government’s proposal to generalise flexi-jobs, warning of risks to workers’ rights and social protection. The advisory body flagged concerns over the erosion of standard employment contracts and the potential for abuse in sectors already heavily reliant on flexible labour. (BX1)

Ixelles School Evacuated After Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, 24 Hospitalised

A school in Ixelles was evacuated on Thursday after a carbon monoxide leak left 24 people hospitalised. Emergency services responded quickly and the building was cleared. An investigation is underway to determine the source of the CO leak, which follows a spate of similar incidents in older Brussels buildings in recent months. (Brussels Times)

De Wever: No Opening on Energy Price Reductions

Minister for Energy Bart De Wever (N-VA) has ruled out any immediate move to lower energy prices, telling parliament there is no fiscal room for manoeuvre. The statement comes as households and businesses across Belgium continue to grapple with elevated electricity and gas bills, and as the broader European energy market remains volatile following recent geopolitical shocks. (BX1)

Jean-Luc Crucke Backs Proposal to Sack Brussels Airport Mediator

Minister for Transport Jean-Luc Crucke (MR) has endorsed a proposal to dismiss the Brussels Airport passenger mediator, following a series of high-profile failures in complaint resolution and passenger assistance. The move has been debated for months, with passenger rights groups watching closely. (BX1)

🚗 Transport & Urban Life

Brussels Airport Operator Working on Plan to Reduce Queues

The operator of Brussels Airport has announced it is developing a comprehensive plan to tackle the persistent queues and waiting times that have frustrated passengers over the past year. The plan, expected to be presented in the coming weeks, reportedly includes staffing increases, new queue-management technology, and operational changes at security and check-in. (BX1)

Sablon Revitalisation Project Still Stuck in the Planning Phase

The planned redevelopment of the Sablon area — one of Brussels’ most beloved neighbourhoods — appears to be progressing slowly, with the project still bogged down in planning discussions and commune-level negotiations. Local shopkeepers and residents have expressed frustration at the lack of visible progress on what was billed as a major urban renewal initiative. (BX1)

🌍 Climate & Environment

Climate Chance Europe Summit to Take Place in Brussels This June

Brussels is set to host the Climate Chance Europe summit in June, bringing together local authorities, climate organisations, and researchers from across the continent. The biennial event focuses on climate action at the local and regional level, and will see Brussels position itself as a leading European city in the green transition. (BX1)

Greens Push for EU Sanctions Against Israel Over Death Penalty Law

The European Greens party is pressing the EU to impose sanctions on Israel following the passage of a law that could reintroduce the death penalty. MEPs are demanding a strong diplomatic response, including potential targeted measures against Israeli officials responsible for the legislative shift. (Brussels Times)

💶 Economy & Finance

Belgium and EU Navigate Fresh Energy Shocks Amid Market Volatility

Belgium and the broader European Union are grappling with a new wave of energy market turbulence, driven by geopolitical instability and supply concerns. Policymakers are under pressure to shield households and businesses from price spikes, while the EU seeks to accelerate its energy independence strategy. (Brussels Times)

🎭 Culture & Society

Ground Broken for New Autism Centre at Nos Pilifs Farm

A new purpose-built facility for 85 autistic children was officially inaugurated at the Nos Pilifs therapeutic farm in Brussels. The groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant expansion of specialised care places in the capital, where demand for autism-appropriate schooling and support has long outstripped supply. (BX1)

Despite 325 Places Saved, Homelessness in Brussels Remains “Deeply Worrying”

Brussels’ homelessness sector is sounding the alarm despite a campaign that has reportedly saved 325 shelter places from closure. NGOs say the numbers obscure a structural failure to address the root causes of housing exclusion, and are calling on regional authorities to invest in long-term solutions rather than emergency measures. (BX1)

Manneken and Belgian Inventions: The Smurfs’ Origin Story for Children

RTBF’s Auvio Kids series “Manneken and Belgian Inventions” turns its spotlight on the creation of the Smurfs — the beloved blue characters invented by Belgian cartoonist Peyo in 1958. The episode brings the story to life for young listeners, part of a wider project celebrating Belgium’s outsized contributions to global culture. (RTBF)

Brussels Gig Guide: Best Concerts and Live Music This April

Brussels Times presents its curated guide to the best live music in the capital this month, covering venues from the Ancienne Belgique to Forest National and a host of intimate clubs. From indie rock to classical chamber concerts, the guide has recommendations for every musical taste. (Brussels Times)

No Easter Plans? Where to Go for Brunch in Brussels

With Easter weekend approaching and many Brussels residents still deciding how to spend the long weekend, Brussels Times rounds up the best spots for a leisurely brunch in the capital. From classic Belgian establishments to newer addresses making waves on the food scene, there’s something for every appetite. (Brussels Times)

Why Belgium Doesn’t Do Good Friday

Brussels Times explores the peculiar Belgian tradition — or rather, non-tradition — of not observing Good Friday as a public holiday. The piece examines the historical, cultural, and political reasons Belgium stands apart from most other European countries in keeping the day a normal working day. (Brussels Times)