All Brussels political parties (with the exception of Vlaams Belang) met this Sunday, February 1, at the initiative of a citizens’ collective including representatives from the Respect Brussels and WeAreBrussels movements, as well as a broad range of stakeholders representing employers, social services, the artistic and academic worlds, and neighborhood committees of the capital.
A First in 600 Days of Negotiations
By responding to this citizens’ invitation, these parties demonstrated their willingness to see a fully functioning government come into being. The organizers emphasize that, by agreeing to sit at the same table for the first time in 600 days with parties holding very different visions for the future of Brussels, these politicians chose to seek common ground to keep democracy alive, without denying their differences.
A Positive and Calm Atmosphere
The discussions took place in a positive and calm atmosphere. This mindset is considered essential by the organizers for the future success of the negotiations.
Looking ahead
At the end of this first conciliation meeting, the parties approved the principle of appointing a bilingual Brussels duo of mediators, one French-speaking and one Dutch-speaking. The signatories express their hope that these mediators will be appointed in the coming days in order to breathe new life into Brussels democracy. The signatories of the citizens’ initiative thank all the politicians for their presence and constructive participation in this process. They also make themselves available, once appointed, to support the two mediators and contribute positively to their mission.
