Good afternoon!
Finally, they've reached Belgium. After a week of multiple sightings, disruptions to transport across Europe and even an EU summit specifically dealing with the issue, Belgium last night had its own mini wave of the flying objects.
I'm speaking of drones, of course. While it looks like the 15 craft that appeared over the military base here were flown by locals and were benign rather than malicious, the issue of these types of incursions is a growing threat. Even if they are not deployed by malign state actors, they can still have a huge effect on our daily lives.
Just last night, Munich airport had to cancel flights, and the same has happened across Europe in the last few days – even as European leaders were trying to formulate plans to combat drone invasions.
And whilst they may come up with state-wide policies, once again it seems policymakers and security services are behind the curve of technology, and do not know what to do about drones in individual citizens' hands, which can prove extremely anti-social or even harmful to the rest of us. The proliferation, ease of use, affordability and size of drones mean that this is only going to get worse unless we get a grip now.
Speaking of UFOs... take a look at this article on The Brussels Times website today. I think we can definitely file this under the "weird and wonderful Belgium" category!
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. Fifteen suspicious drones spotted above Belgian military base
Where the drones came from and who operated them is not yet clear. Read more.
2. Belgium sees fewer migrant workers, with one exception
Fewer foreign workers are moving to Belgium, both under EU posting rules and through national visa schemes, as the country's labour market cools. Read more.
3. ‘Swiss cheese’: European air safety in danger as rising airline pressure ‘dehumanises’ staff
Half of pilots indicated that they do not feel like they can push back against management decisions that feel potentially unsafe. Read more.
4. Brussels doctor on why she joined the Gaza flotilla
Dr. Hanne Bosselaers is currently on board the Conscience. Read more.
5. Cult Belgian UFO memorial removed at request of spotter’s family
The unusual roadside monument was erected in 2004. Read more.
6. Belgian electricity grid at risk of overloading, says Flemish energy regulator
An overloaded grid could lead to power outages and overheating of connected devices. Read more.
7. What to do in Brussels this weekend: 3 – 5 October
Feeling uninspired with your weekend plans? Look no further! Our weekly agenda has you covered. Read more.
