Hello, good afternoon and happy Friday everyone!
It's Maïthé, rounding off the first post-summer working week with everything you need to know before heading into the weekend.
First up is Brussels' complicated unemployment situation. Federal reforms to unemployment benefits have increased the number of people looking for a job, while austerity measures and economic conditions have reduced the number of positions available.
As reporter Christopher Richards explains, several factors are at play which explain the current employment market, ranging from government policies to an ageing population. You can read the full story here.
Not entirely unrelated is the Federal Government's search for €10 billion to meet the European expenditure benchmark by the end of the legislative term.
While, in principle, "only" €7.7 billion is needed to meet this benchmark, forecasts by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predict that that figure will rise to €10 billion by 2031.
The deadline for the Federal Government to reach an agreement is 13 October, when the European Commission expects Belgium’s budget proposal and Prime Minister Bart De Wever (N-VA) is due to deliver his State of the Union address to the Federal Parliament.
Last year, this did not materialise: the government had to fall back on temporary budget planning, and De Wever even went to see the King to discuss the situation. The last thing De Wever wants is a repeat of that scenario. Read what's happening here.
And because it's Friday, we also have our regular list of recommendations for things to do this weekend. Whether you're looking for an evening full of laughs, new films to watch or an exhibition to discover, reporter Chase Pray gives you all the details.
As always, for comments, tips, corrections or suggestions, find me at m.chini@brusselstimes.com.
Enjoy!
Maïthé
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1. Jobseekers in Brussels are struggling to find roles – here’s why
"Don't expect strong growth on the labour market in the short term," warns a senior economist following a new release of job seeker data for Brussels. Read more.
2. In search of €10 billion: Belgian government prepares for another major budget meeting
Finding €10 billion will be "difficult but not impossible" – provided that all coalition partners are prepared to make concessions. Read more.
3. Man armed with Kalashnikov arrested at Brussels-Midi station, investigation launched
The man had reportedly travelled to Belgium from France and had arrived at the Brussels-Midi station shortly before his arrest. Read more.
4. Brussels Airlines flight crew not obliged to operate flights to Israel
Brussels Airlines staff can still refuse to operate flights to and from Tel Aviv, following talks between the airline’s management and unions. Read more.
5. Brussels unveils latest school playground to receive ‘green’ makeover
A total of 25 Brussels playgrounds will receive a makeover as part of a regional initiative to improve the well-being of children and address climate issues. Read more.
6. What to expect when BRIFF returns to Brussels this Friday
The ninth annual Brussels International Film Festival begins today, bringing international premieres, Belgian productions and emerging European directors to cinemas across the city. Read more.
7. What to do in Brussels this weekend: 4 – 6 September
Comedy, beautiful artwork and movies. What better way is there to welcome September? Click to see The Brussels Times top picks for this weekend. Read more.
