Brussels officially becomes an 'anti-fascist city'

The city of Brussels has unanimously adopted a motion declaring the capital to be an 'anti-fascist city' ahead of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe on 8 May.

Initially tabled by Ecolo-Groen, the motion was warmly welcomed by socialist, liberal and Christian democrat councillors, reports Bruzz. The city of Brussels wanted to underline its history of fighting against fascism while reaffirming its position for the future.

Ecolo-Green city councillor Zoubida Jellab, who sponsored the motion, pointed out that far-right ideas were still alive today, “in the United States under Trump, but also here in Europe - such as in Italy, Poland, Hungary, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, Slovakia, Sweden, Portugal, Spain and with us.”

Brussels confirmed it was a city committed to fighting all forms of hatred, fascism, the extreme right, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and the like, added Jellab.

Mayor Philippe Close (PS) underlined the importance of the motion and called on councillors to vote on it unanimously. It was important because as the capital of Europe, the city was showing its resistance. “Not a single day goes by without us falling off our chairs about statements from the United States,” said the mayor.

He recalled that Brussels city council was more right-wing in the past than today and "no fascists have been elected in the city of Brussels for 20 years". The mayor was "proud" of the city council today, "with people who come a little bit from everywhere".

"The largest cosmopolitan city in Europe is once again setting a good example, because it doesn't matter where you come from. What counts is what you build together," concluded Close.

Photo: Citizens celebrate the liberation of Brussels in September 1944 ©Belga Archives