This honorary title rewards the Belgian capital for its efforts to strengthen democracy in the broad sense, both at European and local levels.
Brussels submitted its candidacy under the slogan “Brussels must be crazy about democracy.” As the European Capital of Democracy, the city aims to be recognized as a true “champion of democracy in an increasingly autocratic world.”
It is true that Brussels is the most diverse capital city on the European continent. Thanks to its status as Europe’s capital, its demographic makeup makes it a unique democratic laboratory.
An expert jury therefore visited the city to explore a series of projects related to local democracy and citizen participation. At the City Hall and in various neighbourhoods, local stakeholders, residents and associations presented their participatory initiatives.
In total, more than 5,500 European citizens from 46 member states of the Council of Europe, as well as from Kosovo, voted in favour of Brussels.
Starting in 2027, the City of Brussels will thus host, over an entire year, projects, debates and events dedicated to citizen participation, dialogue and democratic innovation.
A wonderful showcase for the capital of Belgium!
