Good afternoon.
The image of Brussels as an increasingly violent city is something we have written about and addressed from several angles over the past year or so. It is something that is increasingly on the political agenda – but solutions are still proving elusive and controversial.
As I have consistently stated, the perception of crime and "safe-ness" is as important as the actual situation. Indeed, often the perception differs from the real figures, but it is folly to ignore these perceptions if you are a politician; once a narrative takes hold, it is very difficult to shift, whether it is based on truth or not.
As journalists, it is our job to constantly try to speak to not just those "in power" but also to citizens, residents, and our readers to find out what they think about things – what their perception is.
This is what we have done today in our main article in The Brussels Times. You may agree or disagree with the views of the people we approached. And this is why we will continue to ask people what they think about the city and country in which we all live and work, so that we may all better understand each other's perspectives and lives. This helps us understand you, our readers, and also helps us challenge those making the decisions on your behalf.
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. Brussels through the eyes of EU workers: A loved but feared city
"When my daughters will be older and more autonomous, we will more likely move out of Brussels for safety reasons." Read more.
2. Partial closure of Brussels Small Ring Road until November
Until 1 November, traffic for cars and pedestrians will be disrupted. Several transport services will also be diverted. Read more.
3. EU Summit in Brussels: Traffic disruptions expected this week
Traffic in Brussels will face disruptions from Wednesday to Friday due to security measures in place for an EU summit. Read more.
4. New study brings hope for certain breast cancer patients
Dual-targeted therapy significantly improves long-term survival for patients whose cancer has spread from the breast to the lymph nodes. Read more.
5. Belgium ends hotel accommodation for asylum seekers
Belgium will phase out housing asylum seekers in hotels, minister of asylum and migration says. Read more.
6. Life through a lens: Belgium’s streets as you’ve never seen them before
In Brussels, a group of photographers is turning everyday city life into art. Read more.
7. These five iconic dishes are Belgians’ favourites
A survey of 2,500 Belgians was conducted to better understand their eating habits. Read more.
