Belgium
Some of the key events about Belgium
- 1576Spanish troops sacked and burned Antwerp, killing thousands in what became known as the "Spanish Fury"
- 1830Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands, establishing itself as a sovereign state
- 1830The Belgian Revolution led to the separation from the Netherlands and significant political instability
- 1835The first railway on the European continent opened between Brussels and Mechelen
- 1905The world's first diamond cutting factory was established in Antwerp
- 1914Germany invaded neutral Belgium, triggering Britain's entry into World War I
- 1919Universal suffrage for men was introduced in Belgium
- 1921The world's first international hockey league was founded in Belgium
- 1940Nazi Germany invaded and occupied Belgium during World War II
- 1958Brussels hosted the World's Fair, introducing the iconic Atomium structure
- 1960Belgium hastily granted independence to Congo, leading to years of instability and violence in the former colony
- 1967The world's first stock exchange was founded in Antwerp
- 1980A series of terrorist attacks known as the "Brabant killings" left 28 people dead and many more injured
- 1985The Heysel Stadium disaster occurred, resulting in 39 deaths and hundreds of injuries
- 1989Belgium became the second country in the world to legalize abortion
- 1996The Marc Dutroux case shocked the nation, exposing failures in the Belgian justice and police system
- 1999Belgium became one of the first countries to legalize same-sex civil partnerships
- 2003Belgium became the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage
- 2016Brussels was hit by terrorist attacks, killing 32 civilians and injuring over 300 people
- 2021Severe flooding in Belgium caused by heavy rainfall led to 42 deaths and widespread destruction
Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.
Belgium Latest news
UN Reports Worsening Prison Conditions in DR Congo
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Deadly Methane Blast in Iranian Coal Mine Claims 51 Lives, Injures 20
Congo Releases 600 Inmates from Overcrowded Kinshasa Prison
Brussels Airlines Cancels 80% of Flights Due to Security Strike
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Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate
Congo Court Sentences 37, Including 3 Americans, to Death for Coup Attempt
UN Reports Worsening Prison Conditions in DR Congo
UN High Commissioner highlights deteriorating prison conditions in DR Congo, citing torture and sexual violence. Recent mass escape attempt at overcrowded Makala prison underscores urgent need for reform.
Former Taiwan Leader's European Tour Sparks Diplomatic Tension
Ex-Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen's planned European visit draws China's criticism. The trip, starting October 12, aims to promote Taiwan's international engagement despite Beijing's opposition.
Interpol Expands 'Identify Me' Operation to Solve 46 Cold Cases Across Europe
Interpol and six European nations reopen investigations into 46 unidentified female victims. The expanded operation builds on previous success, emphasizing public assistance and advanced forensic techniques.
Global Commemorations Mark One Year Since Hamas Attack on Israel
World leaders call for end to antisemitism and hostage release on first anniversary of Hamas attack. Vigils and remembrances held globally, balancing tensions between communities.
UK Parliament to Debate Assisted Dying Bill, Public Support Growing
British lawmakers will consider legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill adults. The bill, to be presented on October 16, 2024, comes amid shifting public opinion and global trends in end-of-life choices.
Tragic Lake Kivu Boat Accident Claims 50 Lives in Eastern Congo
A boat capsized on Lake Kivu in eastern Congo, resulting in at least 50 fatalities. The incident, occurring near Kituku port, highlights ongoing safety concerns in the region's water transport.
Pope Francis Calls for Higher Compensation for Belgian Abuse Victims
Pope Francis acknowledges insufficient compensation for clergy abuse victims in Belgium. He meets with survivors, reiterates commitment to help, and faces calls for more concrete actions from Belgian leaders.
Pope Francis Criticizes Disproportionate Military Actions in Middle East
Pope Francis expresses concern over recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for proportionate defense in warfare. He maintains daily contact with a Catholic parish in Gaza amid ongoing conflict.
Pope Francis Confronts Abuse Scandal in Belgium, Faces Reform Calls
During his visit to Belgium, Pope Francis addressed the Catholic Church's sexual abuse crisis and faced criticism over women's roles. His statements sparked debate on Church reform and modernization.
Pope's Comments on Women's Roles Spark Criticism from Belgian University
Pope Francis's remarks on women's roles during a visit to Belgium drew criticism from the University of Louvain. The incident highlights ongoing debates within the Catholic Church about gender and leadership.
Belgian Leaders Demand Concrete Action from Pope on Clerical Abuse
During Pope Francis's visit to Belgium, King Philippe and PM De Croo strongly urged for tangible measures against clerical abuse. The pontiff assured global efforts to address the issue, amid renewed focus on the Church's past.
Disability Groups Challenge Canada's Assisted Death Law in Court
Disability advocates in Canada contest the constitutionality of medically assisted death for those not near end of life. The legal challenge argues it violates rights and puts disabled individuals at risk.
Pope Francis Urges Luxembourg to Share Wealth, Boost Birth Rates
During a rare European tour, Pope Francis called on Luxembourg's leaders to aid developing nations and welcome migrants. He also encouraged higher birth rates in the wealthy nation before heading to Belgium.
Protests Erupt in Kinshasa Over Political Prisoners as Congo Faces Human Rights Scrutiny
Hundreds protest in Congo's capital demanding release of opposition figures. Controversy surrounds President Tshisekedi's re-election and Congo's bid for UN Human Rights Council seat amid criticism.
Pope Francis Resumes Duties, Confirms Upcoming Trip Despite Health Concerns
Pope Francis, 87, held his weekly audience after a brief health setback. He confirmed plans for his upcoming trip to Luxembourg and Belgium, demonstrating resilience despite recent health challenges.
Pope's Belgium Visit Overshadowed by Clergy Abuse Legacy
Pope Francis faces a challenging reception in Belgium, as the country grapples with its history of clergy sex abuse. The visit, originally planned to celebrate university anniversaries, is now marked by controversy and investigations.
EU Report Links Colonial Legacy to Persistent Racial Disparities in Europe
A new EU report reveals how colonial-era policies continue to impact racial inequalities in Europe. It calls for anti-racism measures and reparatory justice to address historical injustices.
Italy's Citizenship Reform Referendum Gains Momentum
Pro-migrant groups in Italy gather sufficient signatures for a referendum on easing citizenship laws. The proposed changes could impact 2.5 million foreigners, potentially reshaping Italy's demographic landscape.
Belgian Scientists Simulate 2040 Climate to Study Pear Growth Impact
Researchers in Belgium are using transparent domes to simulate 2040 climate conditions for pear growing. Initial results show minor effects on fruit quality but changes in ecosystem functioning.
Belgian Church Faces Crossroads as Pope Francis Prepares Visit
As Pope Francis prepares to visit Belgium, the country's Catholic community grapples with progressive movements and traditional practices. The visit highlights challenges faced by the Church, including abuse scandals and declining attendance.
Congo Releases 1,700 Ill Inmates from Overcrowded Kinshasa Prison
Nearly 1,700 sick prisoners were freed from Congo's largest prison in Kinshasa to address severe overcrowding. The release follows a deadly jailbreak attempt and highlights ongoing issues in the country's penal system.
Pope Francis Postpones Audiences Amid Health Concerns Before Benelux Trip
Pope Francis cancels meetings due to flu-like symptoms, raising concerns about his upcoming visit to Belgium and Luxembourg. The 87-year-old pontiff's health has been a recurring issue in recent years.
Deadly Methane Blast in Iranian Coal Mine Claims 51 Lives, Injures 20
A methane explosion in an eastern Iranian coal mine has resulted in at least 51 fatalities and 20 injuries. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with challenges due to underground conditions.
Congo Releases 600 Inmates from Overcrowded Kinshasa Prison
Congo frees 600 prisoners from Makala Central Prison to address severe overcrowding. Justice Minister announces plans for further releases, including minors and ill inmates, following recent deadly jailbreak attempt.
Brussels Airlines Cancels 80% of Flights Due to Security Strike
Brussels Airlines announces major flight cancellations for October 1 due to a national security workers' strike. The airline, part of Lufthansa Group, offers alternative options for affected passengers.
Germany Tightens Border Controls, Debunking Closure Claims
Germany introduces stricter border measures for six months, refuting false claims of closure. The move aims to address irregular migration and security concerns, not seal off the country.
U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel
Government inspectors general prepare to publish investigations into U. S. weapons provision to Israel for Gaza operations. Reports follow concerns over potential law violations in arms transfers.
Congo Court Sentences Three Americans to Death for Alleged Coup
Three Americans face death sentences in Congo for alleged coup involvement. Lawyer appeals verdict, citing illegal reinstatement of death penalty. Case highlights Congo's political instability.
Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate
Germany implements temporary border checks with western and northern neighbors to address irregular migration and crime. The move, affecting five countries, raises concerns about free movement within the EU.
Congo Court Sentences 37, Including 3 Americans, to Death for Coup Attempt
A military court in Congo has sentenced 37 people to death for a failed coup attempt. The defendants, including three Americans, were convicted of terrorism and other charges. The verdict can be appealed.