If you live in Brussels and have a phone, then you may get an alert today at some point. Don't panic, though – it is just part of the Belgian authorities' emergency preparedness testing measures.
It is easy to dismiss these tests as we go about our busy lives as somewhat irrelevant or irritating, but recent events should make us think again. It is not being alarmist to suggest that we should all consider from time to time where or how we might cope, shelter, or endure any emergency event or prolonged period of unforeseen disaster, be it climate or health-related or otherwise, and what we can do to prepare for that.
This is just one of the articles on The Brussels Times website today. So maybe after you have read it, just take five minutes to make a little list and perhaps check if you have spare batteries for that torch and some extra tins of beans in the cupboard when you go home later.
Belgium in Brief is a free daily roundup of the top stories to get you through your coffee break conversations. To receive it straight to your inbox every day, sign up below:
1. The amount of money you must earn to ‘live with dignity’ in Belgium
A recent study has examined how much households need to live well. Read more.
2. Commission considers action to ensure EU-wide abortion access – What about Belgium?
'There is a misconception that reproductive rights are a divisive topic, but research shows that more than 70% of people in Europe support these rights." Read more.
3. Police must make more efforts to trace stolen goods
Brussels Prosecutor Julien Moinil ordered the police services and his staff to crack down on traceable stolen goods. Read more.
4. European Parliament turned pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
If you walked around the EU quarter last night, you might have seen the symbolic initiative which marked the start of breast cancer awareness month. Read more.
5. Semi-automatic firearms network dismantled in Brussels
Several people were detained following the investigation by the Belgian authorities. Read more.
6. Claims of censorship as Brussels bookstore cancels event with French writer
French writer Raphaël Enthoven has been criticised for his controversial remarks about the war in Gaza. Read more.
7. Mane attraction: The last stand of the Brabant draft horse
Once the engine of farms, breweries and battlefields, today it parades at fairs, pulls carriages and inspires filmmakers. Read more.
