Brussels is much more than the Belgian capital: it is also the political capital of Europe. Yet, despite this coveted status, the Region seems to lack ambition today to defend and strengthen its position on the international stage.

An historical opportunity missed

On April 17, 2024, during a plenary session of the Brussels Parliament, I questioned Secretary of State Ans Persoons about what is known as the "seat policy." This policy aims to organize and revitalize the reception of international institutions in Brussels, and to attract new ones. Unfortunately, it is clear that this policy seems to be at a standstill.

We still do not have a clear strategy, nor a coordination structure between the different levels of power. Even worse, there are no performance indicators, no common vision, no public action plan in sight. At a time when other capitals like Paris, Amsterdam, or Vienna are actively seeking to host European agencies and multilateral bodies, Brussels seems to be lagging behind. Time is of the essence in a context of accelerated geopolitical reconfiguration.

Concrete questions left unanswered

I asked the Secretary of State a series of eight specific questions to shed light on the current situation:

• Is there a strategic document or an action plan dedicated to the seat policy?
• Which institution leads this issue at the regional level?
• Have calls for applications been made to host new international agencies?
• Is the Region actively engaging in dialogue with major institutions already present, such as the Commission or NATO?
• What infrastructures are available to support their development?
• What specific services are offered to diplomats and their families to facilitate their settlement?
• Are actions being taken to promote Brussels' image as a global capital?
• Lastly, how is the current policy being evaluated? What are the medium-term objectives?

Real consequences for Brussels and its inhabitants

This is not just an institutional debate. Each agency, each headquarters, each diplomatic representation is an economic driver, a pool of qualified jobs, an opportunity for our universities, our businesses, our cultural influence. Letting these opportunities slip away to other metropolises means losing valuable resources for Brussels.

Brussels can no longer afford inaction

Our status as an international capital cannot be taken for granted. It must be actively defended, strengthened, anticipated. We have enormous potential. But we must recognize it, structure it, and provide the means to achieve it. This requires a clear political will, adequate resources, and coherent governance between the City, the Region, and the federal State.

As a Brussels MP, I will continue to advocate for this demand for excellence. So that Brussels does not just passively witness history, but remains a major player. Because beyond the institutions, it is the people of Brussels themselves who benefit from a strong international presence: in terms of employment, investments, mobility, and openness to the world.

And you, do you think our Region is fully playing its role as an international capital? Or should we do more to preserve our position at the heart of Europe and the world?