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Archived edition · October 01, 2026 Today's news →

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Belgium

De Standaard

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The news from De Standaard focuses on Belgian domestic issues including government spending cuts affecting culture and AI implementation, and a legal case against Sihame El Kaouakibi. International news covers a sexual assault debate at an American university, a new EU policy for member states…

Top stories

Flemish Government Cuts AI for Culture ↗

Front page lead

The Flemish government has implemented austerity measures, reducing funding for culture and local authorities while increasing the use of Artificial Intelligence in public services.

Trial Begins for Sihame El Kaouakibi ↗

After 5.5 years, a trial has started for former politician Sihame El Kaouakibi and her partner, accused of fraud and forgery related to their dance project 'Let's Go Urban'.

Commentary: Flemish Budget Fairness ↗

An opinion piece suggests that if no one celebrates the Flemish budget, the costs are likely distributed fairly, questioning if the government's austerity measures will truly achieve budget balance.

EU Trial Period for New Member States ↗

New EU member states will undergo a probationary period and could lose voting rights if they undermine the rule of law, to prevent issues similar to those with Hungary.

Front page

Screenshot of the De Standaard front page
Front page captured at 07:41 UTC on October 01, 2026