Barrier Sparks Fury, Drought Looms, Smuggling Surges
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Belgium is grappling with several pressing domestic issues, including public outrage over a newly erected concrete barrier in Flanders near Brussels. The country is also bracing for a period of extreme drought as temperatures rise and rainfall remains scarce, prompting concerns about water resources.
Economically, new data reveals that nearly half of unemployed individuals excluded from benefits are now applying for a living wage, highlighting significant regional disparities in social support. Meanwhile, authorities are contending with a rise in illegal cigarette smuggling, with reports of booming illicit factories attracting criminal elements. A spontaneous strike has also erupted at concrete plants in Limburg following an employee dismissal.
In political news, Christophe Van Gheluwe, the founder of Cumuleo, a platform tracking politicians' multiple mandates, discussed his work in promoting transparency. On a positive note, Ghent has been recognized as the only Belgian city on The New York Times' list of alternative canal cities, celebrating its unique charm.