This year’s focus
In 2023, Brussels Voice is working hand-in-hand with the Brussels Parliament! We’re giving International Brusselers the chance to bring their ideas into the heart of regional policy with a special deliberative session alongside Members of Parliament. Join us for a unique experience where you can make yourself heard and contribute to a better Brussels for EVERYONE.
The first cycle of Brussels Voice opened a new democratic space for International Brusselers, gathering 22 great proposals in the Manifesto of the International Brusseler. These ideas covered everything from transport to democracy, from public services to fairer housing. The regional Government took note of your proposals and even responded to the ideas. But we always knew this was just the beginning…
The first project showed that International Brusselers worry about many of the same things as their Belgian neighbours — but they also face some specific issues. This time round we want to focus on the challenges which affect International Brusselers more than other residents. That will let the international community bring their unique perspective into regional politics, so we can work together to find tailored solutions for those who cannot vote in regional elections.
In practice, we’re building on that first experience with a new cycle of workshops in September and October 2023. We’re recruiting a panel of International Brusselers to select one or two ideas from the Manifesto and work with Members of the regional Parliament to create updated recommendations. The Parliament will debate these recommendations as part of its political work, so your ideas can really contribute to regional policy!
Participatory and deliberative democracy are all about getting people involved in political debates and decisions. Brussels is a world leader in the field, and Brussels Voice 23 is inspired by the innovative Deliberative Committees of our regional Parliament. The programme will include a full day of deliberation, where participants will sit and debate alongside Members of Parliament. With this new approach, we hope to activate the power of both citizens’ participation and electoral democracy – all while giving a voice to people and communities who cannot vote in regional elections.
Participatory and deliberative democracy are all about getting people involved in political debates and decisions. Brussels is a world leader in the field, and Brussels Voice 23 is inspired by the innovative Deliberative Committees of our regional Parliament. The programme will include a full day of deliberation, where participants will sit and debate alongside Members of Parliament. With this new approach, we hope to activate the power of both citizens’ participation and electoral democracy – all while giving a voice to people and communities who cannot vote in regional elections.
Brussels Voice was always open to all International Brusselers, and the 1500 participants of the first cycle were a diverse mix. For this second cycle we are even more ambitious, reaching out more actively to groups beyond the “international sector” who were less represented in the first project. We are also updating the way we run our workshops and activities to be more inclusive, so everyone should feel welcome to get involved in the panel!
FEELING INTERESTED?
Read more about the process and apply today!
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