A parade of approximately 200 people marched through the streets of Brussels on Tuesday to celebrate the official submission of Molenbeek’s bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2030.
The parade included residents, associations, schools, artists, and partners who contributed to the preparation of Molenbeek’s 2030 bid, known as MB2030.
The bidbook, detailing Molenbeek’s projects, commitments, and ambitions for the title, was delivered from Molenbeek Square to the Marie-Elisabeth Belpaire building near the North Station.
Representatives from the Belgian secretariat in charge of the 2030 European Capital of Culture received the document, which will be passed on to the European Commission.
Project MB2030 leaders emphasised Molenbeek’s focus on a participatory bid, highlighting culture as a driver of social, urban, and cultural transformation, inspired by the concept of “Sadaka.” In various languages, “Sadaka” refers to generosity and solidarity without expecting anything in return.
“This is the result of collective work, co-creation, discussion, and deconstruction,” said Fatima Zibouh, co-leader of MB2030. “We deserve this title,” she asserted.
Namur and Leuven are also contenders for the 2030 European Capital of Culture. The final selection will take place in the second half of this year. In total, three cities will hold the title in 2030: one in Belgium, one in Cyprus, and either Lviv in Ukraine or Niksic in Montenegro.
