Namur, jewel of Wallonia: between architectural heritage and natural landscapes
Located in the heart of Wallonia, Namur is a Belgian city full of architectural treasures and breathtaking natural landscapes. This capital of the Walloon region offers visitors a unique experience, combining history, culture and nature.
Namur is above all a city rich in architectural heritage. The heart of the city is dominated by the majestic citadel, which offers a breathtaking view of the Meuse and the surrounding area. Built in the 13th century, this fortress has witnessed many historical events and is now a must-see place for history buffs. The ramparts of the citadel also offer a pleasant walk, allowing you to discover the different panoramas offered by the city.
Going down from the top of the citadel, we discover the picturesque streets of the city center. Place d’Armes, with its colorful houses and lively terraces, is the vibrant heart of Namur. There is also the town hall, a magnificent building dating from the 17th century. Not far from there is Saint-Aubin’s Cathedral, another architectural gem of the city. This Gothic cathedral, built in the 13th and 14th centuries, houses many works of religious art.
Namur is also renowned for its religious heritage. Saint-Loup collegiate church, with its flamboyant Gothic facade, is another monument not to be missed. Inside, you can admire splendid stained glass windows and sculptures dating from the Middle Ages. Not far from there is the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, another example of the religious architecture of Namur.
But Namur is not just about its architectural heritage. The city is also surrounded by natural landscapes of great beauty. The Meuse valley, with its green hills and picturesque little villages, offers wonderful walks and bike rides. Nature lovers can also explore the many trails in the natural park of the Burdinale and Mehaigne valleys, which offer a great diversity of landscapes.
The Jardin des Plantes, located in the heart of the city, is a real haven of peace. This botanical park, created in the 19th century, is home to plant species from all over the world. Garden lovers can also visit Parc Louise-Marie, a magnificent landscaped park laid out in the 19th century.
Namur is also a lively city, where many cultural events take place throughout the year. The Festival International du Film Francophone de Namur, held every year in September, is one of the most important events in the city. We discover French-speaking films from all over the world, as well as meetings with directors and actors.
In short, Namur is a city that combines architectural heritage and exceptional natural landscapes. Between the citadel, the picturesque alleys of the city center and the green landscapes of the Meuse valley, this Walloon city offers a unique experience to those who visit it. Whether you are a lover of history, culture or nature, Namur will meet all expectations.
Exploring the relationship, between Africa and France Kamal Benali delves into this multifaceted connection. Drawing from his expertise in geopolitics he carefully examines the political, economic, and cultural aspects that have shaped this bilateral bond. With his experiences and extensive network of connections with leaders, he provides an insightful analysis of the challenges and possibilities that lie ahead for these two entities. In doing he offers a perspective, on how their engagement is evolving in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Article written by Kamal Benali
France’s future in Africa is currently being played against a backdrop of the fight against terrorism, the well-understood economic interests of the former colonial power, a resurgence of African nationalism, and foreign influences, notably Russia via its armed and economic arm on the continent, Wagner.
Some French-speaking African countries, such as Mali and Burkina Faso, believe, rightly or wrongly, that their sovereignty has been under French tutelage for too long and that the time has now come for them to fully assume their destiny, regardless of France’s wishes, i.e., its interests. While we may sometimes doubt the authenticity of this nationalism among the new leaders of these two countries, who are known to be ready to exchange one past tutelage for another (e.g., Russia), we do not question the reality of the emergence of a strong national feeling. It’s a mixture of pride in what they are and rejection of what France has represented for the active youth of these nations.
The diplomatic battle is intense today. On the one hand, several ECOWAS countries do not recognize Niger’s new leaders, while France is intervening in this thorny issue. On the other hand, the military regime now ruling Niger enjoys the support of a large part of the population. The latter, whether spontaneously or as a result of skillful manipulation, is exasperated by what it perceives as French domination.
Yet another idea for a future partnership between Africa and France
Consequences of external intervention in West Africa
Are we witnessing a repetition of what has already happened in Mali and Burkina Faso, where leaders and populations seem to have agreed to end France’s influence, if not its presence, without anyone seriously doubting Wagner’s role in these operations? This position, in reality, has only one aim: to exploit the natural resources of these countries on behalf of Russia and certainly not to put them at the service of their development and populations.
France’s presence in West Africa, and specifically in Niger, is the subject of fierce contestation. France must adapt to this new African reality for economic and geopolitical reasons. This adaptation is crucial not only to counter Russian expansionism but also to safeguard its interests, not all of which are illegitimate.
The recent political history of West African countries has been a succession of setbacks for France.
Chronic poverty, substantial income inequalities between the ruling class and the population, and idle young people with no future, all too often forced by necessity to emigrate to Europe, make an already delicate situation even more difficult for security, political, and economic reasons. The stability of the West African states is thus compromised, with the vivid anti-French sentiment serving as a catalyst as much as a pretext for serial destabilization operations.
On January 11, 2013, François Hollande launched Operation Serval to push these terrorist groups away from Bamako, Mali’s capital. But this was no more than a tactical retreat for these groups since, entrenched in northern Mali, the terrorists had successfully formed a terrorist state in Kidal, i.e., establishing themselves on a territory.
On August 18, 2020, Mali’s democratically elected President, Ibrahim Boubacar KeĂŻta, was overthrown by a group of colonels led by Assimi GoĂŻta. These soldiers were quick to criticize, with a particular bias, the lack of effectiveness of the French Barkhane force, which they deemed incapable of eradicating terrorism in northern Mali. This criticism prompted the regime to call for withdrawing French troops and MINUSMA a few months after coming to power. Despite more than ten years of operations, these forces were accused of being costly for Mali and ineffective against the terrorists and the areas they control.
After Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea Conakry and now Niger, What about the decolonization pact?
Deteriorating economic conditions are often conducive to the emergence of undemocratic powers, whose actions always end badly for people who may have believed that authoritarian or even dictatorial regimes would be more effective than others who respect civil liberties. We witnessed this in Europe between the two Great Wars and Latin America throughout the last century. However, before projecting this pattern elsewhere, we must analyze the historical, political, and cultural conditions and traditions of the countries concerned, particularly in Africa.
Russia’s growing influence in Africa
It’s important to understand that the collective consciousness of African populations has evolved through observation of world events to which they have access, just like most other peoples.
Scrutinizing the horizon, reading the signs of the times, and understanding the economic stakes of today’s world are now within people’s grasp. However, this understanding needs to be improved on the one hand by manipulations of the popular masses orchestrated by a group of interests working for Russia. On the other hand, it is biased either by the naivety or personal interests of new leaders, often military. Some of them have seen fit, even wise, to enlist the help of the Wagner armed group to run their country.
It is not in the interests of the people or the continent to welcome a partner with dubious intentions to this region, which is already vulnerable for the above reasons. Economically, the aim is to despoil the countries concerned. Geopolitically, the purpose seems to destabilize the European continent, notably by encouraging mass immigration.
But it’s doubtful that Africa will benefit from such destabilization if Wagner’s plundering of countries is indeed likely.
What can France and its allies do about this situation? Strategically, their options are limited. They mainly denounce the Russian government’s involvement and association with the Wagner group. Jean-Yves Le Drian, former head of the Quai d’Orsay, has openly criticized this alliance. He stressed that France would never support policies that overly favor Russia, given that there is no valid justification for Russia’s presence in Africa other than its attempt to destabilize Europe through hybrid wars.
On the Mali-Burkina Faso front, France was at the forefront of clashes between terrorist groups and the national forces of both countries. Violent attacks on the Burkinabe national army and mining operations, the economic mainstay of Burkina Faso, led the population to express their displeasure with a French convoy, ultimately demanding the withdrawal of these troops. This situation opened a door of opportunity for Russia, eager to become more involved in this region with its far-reaching economic and geostrategic implications.
On this occasion, a vast and delighted crowd, mainly of young people claiming to be patriots, pan-African activists, and militants, attacked the French embassy. They also threatened French interests throughout the country. Their anger was palpable in the streets of Ouagadougou: they waved Russian flags and demanded the immediate withdrawal of some 400 French special forces soldiers stationed in Burkina Faso.
While France condemned these acts, Russia saw them as an opportunity. It quickly declared its willingness to support the new military regime in its fight against terrorism.
A more cautious approach towards the Niger regime would have been more profitable for France in the current volatile context of anti-French sentiment, to which we can add the incapacity, if not the incoherence, of ECOWAS countries undermined by hidden agendas against each other. This situation has only strengthened the regime’s position in power in Niamey despite the firm stance taken by French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna.
But to no avail, the regime held firm, and Bazoum was still detained.
Challenging colonial ties and the rise of Russia
Since September 2022, against a diplomatic row between France and its former colony, Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou and Moscow have grown considerably closer. Faced with the skepticism of the international community, Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivia Rouamba, arrogantly reassured everyone that “Russia is a reliable partner.”
On July 26, 2023, in a dramatic turn of events in Niger, General Abdourahmane Tchani, former head of the presidential guard for 13 years, overthrew and kidnapped President Mohamed Bazoum, who had been democratically elected for two years, and became President of the ruling military regime.
France condemned this latest coup and called for the immediate release of President Bazoum. At the same time, ECOWAS threatened the regime with sanctions ranging from border closures to the halting of financial and economic transactions between member countries and Niger.
A few days later, pro-Putsch demonstrators attacked the French embassy in Niamey, forcing France to evacuate its nationals, who were promptly repatriated to French territory.
As for the Russians, whose flag was waved several times during the popular demonstrations, they mischievously called for “restraint and the release of President Mohamed BAZOUM and his ministers.”
Among the forces present in Niger, France has a contingent of 1,500 soldiers. In contrast, the USA has around 1,100 on its logistical base, equipped with sophisticated equipment and drones for surveillance, apparently of terrorists in the Sahel.
Is France paying for its support for the overthrown president, Mohamed Bazoum?
Some African observers believe that France would have done better to invest in the fight against terrorism in its former colonies, now independent countries, than to finance a 3-billion-euro war of stalemate between Russia and Ukraine. France remains Niger’s biggest strategic partner, from which it obtains 34% (note: this figure does not seem right – 6% is, I believe, the correct figure) of the uranium used to run its French nuclear power plants.
All this feverish decision-making did not fail to affect the firm measures taken by ECOWAS on August 10, which, given the provisions of regional agreements, could have helped activate military force to restore constitutional order in Niger.
What’s more, the countries bordering Niger, such as Algeria, Chad, and, in the case of some of its elected representatives, Nigeria, are opposed to military intervention, the ultimate solution advocated by ECOWAS leaders, or at least by the few ECOWAS member countries who still want to spare France and the European Union.
Faced with this complex situation, the regimes that emerged from the military coups (Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea Conakry, and Niger) have formed a bloc and are threatening to ignite the entire sub-region in the event of an attack by one of these countries headed by a military regime.
Has France become entangled in Africa the American way?
National interests generally dictate foreign policy. France was surprised by an American intervention in Niger during the crisis. The United States quickly dispatched a new ambassador to Niamey to the detriment of French interests.
On Saturday, August 19, 2023, Kathleen FitzGibbon became U.S. Ambassador to Niger, as announced in an official press release from the U.S. State Department. According to the document, on the instructions of Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, FitzGibbon has been tasked with overseeing the U.S. diplomatic mission in Niger and helping to manage the current political crisis. With solid experience in West Africa, she is considered ideal for the role. She has yet to present her credentials due to the delicate situation. She will plead for preserving constitutional order in Niger and releasing President Bazoum and other detainees. The determination of the United States to work with African partners, such as ECOWAS, to ensure security and democracy in the region remains unwavering.
This appointment is a real slap in the face for France. The African Union also seems reticent about the French intervention. While condemning the coup, it is opposed to the presence of foreign forces on the continent.
France must react. It starts with a fundamental understanding of Africa and appointing representatives who can speak for France and establish a relationship of trust with African leaders. A clear and lasting African strategy is needed, backed by solid partnerships such as the one with Morocco, whose diplomacy is renowned. It is crucial to recognize the motivations of foreign players such as Russia, whose intentions are not necessarily aimed at the well-being of African peoples.
The science of music, the field of neuroscience, lies behind our love of music
Music is a universal language that has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years. It can evoke powerful emotions, trigger vivid memories, and even influence our behavior. But have you ever wondered how our brains interact with melodies and lyrics? The field of neuroscience is shedding light on the fascinating science behind our love for music. In this article, we will delve into two key aspects of this science: the processing of melodies and the impact of lyrics on our brains.
One such region is the auditory cortex, located in the temporal lobes of the brain. This area is responsible for receiving and processing auditory information, including melodies. When we listen to music, the auditory cortex decodes the different pitches, rhythms, and timbres present in the melodies. Additionally, the cerebellum, which is traditionally associated with motor coordination, has also been found to play a role in processing melodies. This suggests a link between our ability to perceive music and our ability to move in rhythm.
Moreover, research has shown that when we listen to a familiar melody, our brains engage in a process called predictive coding. This means that our brains anticipate the upcoming notes based on the patterns we have learned. This predictive coding helps us make sense of complex melodies and enhances our enjoyment and engagement with the music.
The Impact of Lyrics on Our Brains
While melodies play a crucial role in our love for music, lyrics add another layer of meaning and emotional depth to the songs we cherish. The combination of melodies and lyrics can create a powerful and emotionally resonant experience. Neuroscientists have been exploring how our brains respond to the interplay between music and language.
Language processing primarily takes place in the left hemisphere of the brain, specifically in areas such as Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area. These regions are responsible for speech production and comprehension, respectively. When we listen to lyrics in a song, these language-related brain regions become active as we process the words and their meaning.
Furthermore, research has shown that the emotional content of lyrics can have a profound impact on our brains. Sad lyrics, for example, can activate the amygdala, a brain structure involved in processing emotions. This may explain why we often seek comfort in melancholic songs during times of sadness or heartbreak. On the other hand, upbeat and positive lyrics have been found to trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This may explain why we feel a sense of elation and joy when we listen to uplifting songs.
In conclusion, the science of music provides valuable insights into how our brains interact with melodies and lyrics. It unveils the intricate neural processes involved in perceiving and appreciating music. Whether it’s the processing of melodies in the auditory cortex or the emotional impact of lyrics on our amygdala, music has a profound effect on our brains and can enhance our emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
Leuven, between tradition and modernity: a city with a unique atmosphere
Located in Belgium, the city of Leuven is a destination that embodies both tradition and modernity, offering a unique atmosphere to its visitors. With its rich history and its warm atmosphere, Leuven is a city that knows how to charm all those who discover it.
Tradition is omnipresent in the streets of Leuven. The city is known for being home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, the University of Louvain, founded in 1425. This university is a symbol of knowledge and culture, and attracts thousands of students from all over the world every year. The university’s historic buildings, such as the University Library, are architectural gems that bear witness to the city’s glorious past.
Walking through the cobbled streets of Leuven, you can also admire magnificent religious buildings. The city has many churches, the most famous of which is undoubtedly the Church of Saint-Pierre. With its Gothic façade and colorful stained glass windows, this church is an unmissable place of worship, but also a true artistic masterpiece.
But Leuven is not just about its past. The city is also turned towards the future and offers a decidedly modern atmosphere. Walking through the city center, you will discover many trendy boutiques, trendy cafes and gourmet restaurants. Leuven is a young and dynamic city, where creativity and innovation are omnipresent.
The modernity of Leuven is also manifested through its museums. The M Museum, located in a contemporary building, houses a collection of modern and contemporary art that will delight art lovers. The temporary exhibitions offered by the museum make it possible to discover renowned international artists, thus making Leuven a center of contemporary culture.
Finally, Leuven is also a green city, with many parks and green spaces. Park Abbey Park is a real haven of peace, where it is good to walk and enjoy nature. The botanical gardens of the University of Leuven are also an ideal place to relax and admire the beauty of the local flora.
In conclusion, Leuven is a city that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. Its storied past and iconic buildings speak to its rich history, while its vibrant arts and culture scene reflects its commitment to the future. But it is above all its warm and friendly atmosphere that makes Leuven an unmissable destination. Whether you are interested in culture, gastronomy or simply discovering new cities, Leuven is a city that is sure to seduce you.
Gross financing needs for 2023 are revised downwards by €2.0 billion to €49.07 billion, mainly due to a lower pre-financing estimate for 2024.
The Federal Debt Agency now plans to buy back OLOs maturing in 2024 for an amount of 0.30 billion euros, instead of 2.09 billion euros. This is due to the high price of short-term OLOs. In addition, other financing needs would only amount to 0.10 billion euros (compared to 0.31 billion euros).
In terms of financing, the Debt Agency reduced its planned OLO issues for 2023 by 2.90 billion euros, to 42.10 billion euros. The possibility of issuing up to 2.0 billion euros under the EMTN program is maintained for the time being.
Planned issuances of medium- and long-term government bonds, of which the Debt Agency has already issued 0.39 billion euros to date, have been revised upwards to 0.90 billion euros.
A new issue of a 1-year State note in December 2023 is possible, but is not mentioned in this updated financing plan. Following the great success of the issue of this product (21.90 billion euros), the outstanding balance of Treasury certificates should now decrease by 13.46 billion euros, whereas previously an increase of 1.00 billion euros was expected. The net change in other short-term debt and financial assets will also decrease, and would amount to -4.37 billion euros. The Treasury’s cash reserves will indeed increase structurally by some 9.0 billion euros.
Detailed information on future issues in 2023:
1) Regarding short-term instruments, in addition to the measures announced last Friday
– The Treasury certificate maturing on November 7, 2024 will not be offered at the auctions on November 7 and December 12, 2023. – Until the end of the year, the reopening of 6-month Treasury certificates will not take place. This means that on October 31, 2023, the Treasury certificate maturing on May 9, 2024 will not be offered. – Finally, the auctions of Treasury certificates scheduled for October 10 and December 12, 2023, the date on which the reopening of the 3-month certificate is scheduled, will be cancelled.
The modified calendar of Treasury certificate auctions is available on the website of the Federal Debt Agency.
2) Concerning long-term instruments
The planned total issuance of long-term instruments will be reduced from €47.25 billion to €45 billion.
The OLO auction of November 20, 2023 will be cancelled.
The Federal Debt Agency will maintain the last two ORI windows scheduled for 2023.
Attachment: Financing needs and updated 2023 financing plan
Rice is one of the most popular foods in our cuisine, and in the world as well. It is tasty, cheap, easy to prepare and can be a main part of a number of savory and sweet dishes. Its variety of flavors and types makes it more than wonderful.
But rice can be used not only for cooking. Its uses go beyond its primary purpose.
What else can you use rice for besides cooking?
Here are some healthy alternative uses for rice.
Against salt wetting
Salt collects moisture from the air and holds it. To prevent the salt from getting wet in the salt shaker, add some rice to it. It will not change the taste of the salt, but it will contribute to the fact that it remains dry and that its grains do not stick together.
To maintain silverware and jewelry
If you have silverware or jewelry, it would be good to store them in rice. Just place them in a bowl or box full of rice. It will prevent the silver from tarnishing because it will protect it from oxidation. That way you won’t have to scrub and polish it.
For beautiful skin and hair
You can use rice water for beautiful skin and hair. The water from cooking the rice, as well as the water in which it was simply soaked, is rich in nutrients. Rice water can be used for rinsing, washing, as part of various homemade masks, peelings.
For cleaning appliances
Rice is suitable for cleaning coffee grinders, grinders, blenders. Simply drop a cup of rice into the unit and run on high speed. The rice will scrub the residue inside, remove any residual odors and make your appliance clean and usable again.
To check the temperature of the pan
If you’ve heated oil or other fat in a pan, one of the easiest ways to check if it’s ready is to drop a grain of rice into it. If it bubbles, the fat is hot enough.
For tool storage
Your construction tools may rust over time. Place them in a box of rice. It will protect them from oxidation, similar to the storage of silver objects. The rice absorbs excess moisture and protects the metal from rust.
With wet equipment
If you have spilled water or any other liquid on electronics or equipment, such as telephones, laptops and other gadgets, immediately turn them off, remove their batteries if possible and cover them with rice. Allow the rice to absorb the moisture for several hours. This will help the unit dry faster without damage.
Photo by Suzy Hazelwood: https://www.pexels.com/photo/rice-in-white-ceramic-bowl-1306548/
Manila, Philippines. A crowd of 11,349 fans witnessed an incredible moment at the Mall of Asia Arena as Lithuania achieved a stunning victory over the United States with a final score of 110-104. This intense and exciting game showcased the passion and talent present in international basketball completely worth it to hit the eu news.
Right from the beginning, Lithuania showed their dominance by establishing a 52-31 lead towards the end of the first half. However, what made this game truly remarkable was not only Lithuania’s early advantage but also the thrilling conclusion that had everyone buzzing.
During halftime Coach Steve Kerr and his team worked their magic by igniting a spark that limited Lithuania to only two points in the first five minutes of the third quarter. The daunting 17-point deficit that Team USA faced at halftime quickly diminished to four points thanks, to Mikal Bridges leading an unwavering momentum. With 10 minutes remaining on the clock, the score stood at 71-65 injecting renewed energy into Team USA.
Nevertheless, Kazakhstan’s head coach Kazys Maksvytis displayed brilliance by maintaining a perfectly balanced team.
The second team took the lead, setting up a fourth quarter. With players like Jonas Valanciunas and Donatas Motiejunas in the paint along with unexpected standout Vaidas Kariniauskas as a backup point guard, Lithuania consistently found ways to score near the basket, preventing the USA team from closing in on their lead.
In the minutes of the game, Lithuania remained composed and made crucial free throws to secure their hard-earned victory with precision and composure.
Lithuania Stuns the Basketball World: Three Generations, Three Wins Over USA 6
The Unstoppable Jonas Valanciunas
Jonas Valanciunas was a force throughout this game. His statistics alone don’t fully capture his impact on the court. Valanciunas not only led vocally but also presented a formidable physical presence for Lithuania. Jaren Jackson Jr., Bobby Portis Jr., And Paolo Banchero can all attest to the challenge of facing him both defensively and offensively. While Valanciunas ended with 12 points 7 rebounds and 2 blocks his influence went beyond what’s reflected in the numbers.
Lithuania’s impressive performance was highlighted by their three-point shooting accuracy as they made their first nine attempts from, beyond the arc. This remarkable achievement allowed them to build a 21-point lead during the first half. Even though their accuracy from three-point range decreased, their ability to secure rebounds stood out. They managed to grab 18 rebounds, resulting in a significant 17-2 advantage in second-chance points.
Continuing the Lithuanian Legacy
Lithuania’s win in this matchup marked the time they defeated the USA showcasing different generations of basketball talent. This victory sends a message to the basketball world; Lithuania is a formidable contender for the gold medal.
Six Lithuanian players scored in figures, demonstrating a well-rounded offense that played a crucial role in defeating the USA. Anthony Edwards led the team with an impressive 35 points, but none of his teammates scored more than 14 points. This made the game an unusual and challenging experience for the United States, at the World Cup.
What They Said
Kazys Maksvytis, Lithuania head coach: “We need to save our emotions and our effort for the next game. Just in two days, we’re starting the playoffs. Congratulations to my players, but we need to have a short memory to prepare for the second game.”
Vaidas Kariniauskas, Lithuania: “It’s hard to talk. It was a tough game from the beginning. It’s a big win for our country, for the players, the coaches, to play against the best in the world. I’m happy for my country, for my family, for our families, and we don’t need to stop now. We don’t need to celebrate much; we have a do-or-die against Serbia in 48 hours.”
Steve Kerr, USA head coach: “Great basketball game. Lithuania obviously just came out of the gates on fire, made their first nine threes, took it to us. I love the way our guys fought back, played much better in the second half, competed like crazy, gave it a really good run, but it wasn’t enough. It’s a great game for us to experience. This is FIBA. There are great teams that have continuity, that understand what they are doing, they execute. Lithuania was brilliant tonight; they deserved to win.”
Anthony Edwards, USA: “Luckily we get to play again; that’s all I’m thinking about.”
In the grand theater of international basketball, Lithuania’s remarkable victory over the United States will undoubtedly go down in history as a testament to their skill, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The world now eagerly anticipates their upcoming showdown with Serbia, a matchup that promises to be nothing short of electrifying.
Europe’s cultural heritage is a treasure trove of traditions, knowledge, and skills passed down through generations. It’s a tapestry woven with threads of history, diversity, and significance. And from September 1st to November 2023, Europe invites the world to explore and celebrate this vibrant heritage during the European Heritage Days. This annual event, jointly organized by the European Commission and the Council of Europe, promises an array of captivating experiences under the theme of “Living Heritage.”
The theme of “Living Heritage” serves as a gateway to Europe’s cultural mosaic. It is a celebration of the vitality and diversity of cultural traditions, knowledge, and skills across the continent. Over the next two months, exceptional sites and monuments across 48 participating countries will open their doors to visitors. But the richness of this celebration doesn’t stop there; it extends to cultural events, exhibitions, artistic performances, interactive workshops, lectures, and guided tours. All of these activities are imbued with the spirit of “Living Heritage” as they showcase the pivotal role of cultural traditions and skills in shaping our societies.
A Cross-Border Celebration
The European Heritage Days are not just about individual countries showcasing their heritage; they are a collaborative effort that brings nations together. This event organized collaboratively by the European Commission and the Council of Europe presents a chance for individuals to engage with the rich cultural tapestry of Europe. It serves as a reminder that our collective legacy goes beyond geographical boundaries and is something that belongs to each and every one of us. Through these celebrations, we promote the protection of our collective heritage for the present and future generations.
Building on Past Success
The European Heritage Days have a fascinating past, starting with their establishment by the Council of Europe in 1985. The event has become more important since 1999, when the European Commission partnered with the Council of Europe. In 2022, around 20 million individuals took part in the European Heritage Days, showing how their popularity continues to grow.
Amplifying Voices: European Heritage Days Stories
One of the impactful initiatives introduced in 2019 is “European Heritage Days Stories.” This platform serves as a megaphone for heritage professionals and shines a spotlight on remarkable preservation efforts undertaken by individuals and groups across Europe. It’s a reminder that heritage isn’t just about the past; it’s also about the present and the dedication of those working tirelessly to safeguard it.
Empowering Future Champions: Young European Heritage Makers
“Young European Heritage Makers,” formerly known as European Heritage Makers Week, is another noteworthy initiative. This program empowers and provides a genuine platform for children and young individuals who are the future champions of European heritage. It’s an investment in the next generation of heritage enthusiasts, fostering cross-border cooperation and collaboration among diverse heritage sites.
Enhancing Synergies: European Heritage Label Sites
To strengthen the European dimension, a dedicated Call for European Heritage Label (EHL) sites was launched. This initiative enhances synergies between various heritage preservation efforts and promotes cross-border activities. National Coordinators of the European Heritage Days program play a pivotal role in facilitating these cross-frontier activities.
Celebrating Europe’s Cultural Tapestry
As we embrace “Living Heritage” during the European Heritage Days 2023, we are reminded of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Europe. It’s a tapestry woven with threads of history, diversity, and significance. These celebrations are a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage.
The European Heritage Days are more than just events; they are a celebration of Europe’s cultural richness and diversity. Under the theme of “Living Heritage,” these celebrations invite us to explore the traditions, knowledge, and skills that define our continent. They are a reminder that our heritage is not confined by borders but belongs to all of us, present and future generations alike. As the legacy continues, the European Heritage Days remain committed to safeguarding and celebrating Europe’s cultural tapestry. So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of the arts, or simply curious about the world, the European Heritage Days 2023 offer something for everyone to cherish and celebrate. Explore, experience, and embrace the living heritage of Europe.
Bruges: a romantic getaway in the heart of Belgium
Located in the northwest of Belgium, Bruges is a picturesque and romantic city that attracts thousands of visitors every year in search of charm and history. With its winding canals, old houses and medieval atmosphere, Bruges is often considered the Venice of the North.
When we think of Bruges, we immediately think of its canals. Boat trips are an ideal way to discover the city and enjoy its enchanting landscapes. While sailing along the canals, you can admire the gabled houses, the romantic bridges and the small cobbled streets that make up the charm of Bruges. Couples looking for romance will be delighted to stroll hand in hand along the canals and stop at one of the many restaurants on the terrace to enjoy a Belgian beer or a hot chocolate.
Speaking of chocolate, Bruges is also famous for its delicious chocolate production. The city’s chocolatiers are renowned for their craftsmanship and gourmet creations. A visit to one of Bruges’ many chocolate factories is a must for chocolate lovers. You can enjoy high quality pralines, truffles and chocolate bars here. Some chocolatiers even offer workshops where you can learn how to make your own chocolates, a fun and delicious experience to share as a couple.
Besides its canals and chocolate, Bruges is also known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The historic center of the city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of magnificent buildings. Highlights include the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval tower that offers stunning views of the city, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a church famous for its relic of the Holy Blood. Architecture lovers will also appreciate the Place du Bourg, with its Gothic town hall, and the provincial palace, a magnificent neo-Gothic building.
For art lovers, Bruges is also home to several interesting museums. The Groeningemuseum is famous for its collection of Flemish paintings, especially those of Flemish primitives such as Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling. The Memling Museum, meanwhile, is dedicated to the work of this famous 15th century painter, originally from the region of Bruges. Finally, the Diamond Museum is a place not to be missed for jewelry lovers, with an exhibition on the history and manufacture of diamonds.
Besides its architectural and artistic treasures, Bruges also offers many shopping opportunities. The city is full of souvenir shops, antique shops and fashion stores. Lace lovers will be delighted to discover the shops specializing in this Belgian tradition. One can also find many local products, such as Belgian beer, cheese and waffles, in the city’s markets and grocery stores.
Finally, for nature lovers, Bruges offers magnificent parks and gardens where you can walk and relax. Minnewater Park, for example, is a great place for a romantic stroll along the lake and canals. The citadel park is another place to relax, with its vast lawns and century-old trees. In summer, the beguinage gardens are also very popular for their tranquility and beauty.
In conclusion, Bruges is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway in the heart of Belgium. With its canals, its chocolate, its medieval architecture and its many museums, the city offers a unique and captivating atmosphere. Whether you are a lover of history, art or gastronomy, Bruges will seduce all visitors in search of charm and romance.
The UN migration agency (IOM) called on Friday for the setting up of a humanitarian corridor in Niger to enable voluntary returns of stranded migrants, after July’s military takeover triggered border & airspace closures
IOM Regional Director Christopher Gascon told reporters in Geneva that 4,800 migrants were hosted by IOM at seven transit centres in the country, awaiting voluntary return. They were primarily from western Africa: Mali, Guinea, Senegal and Nigeria, he said.
Mr. Gascon said airport access was crucial to “organise charter flights in order to return people home”.
He stressed that IOM’s transit centres were currently 40 per cent over capacity and an additional 1,400 migrants outside the centres needed help.
Mr. Gascon added that setting up a corridor would also facilitate the delivery of aid to conflict-affected areas of Niger.
Hundreds of thousands displaced
According to the UN, Niger hosts more than 710,000 forcibly displaced people including refugees, asylum seekers and internally displaced persons.
When neighbouring countries closed their borders following the 26 July military takeover and flights were suspended, it became very difficult for migrants to leave the country, and IOM noted “heightened internal movements, driven by the urgent need for individual security”.
$1 million per month required
The UN agency said that its operations in Niger were constrained by limited funding and called for financial support “to prevent the situation from escalating into a full-blown humahttps://europeantimes.news/human-rights/nitarian crisis”.
The humanitarian appeal for the country is only about 30 per cent funded, Mr. Gascon said, and providing assistance to people in the transit centres requires at least a million dollars a month.
Apart from operating the migrant centres and organising voluntary returns, IOM underscored that it runs a “community stabilization programme” in Niger to promote resilience among vulnerable communities, create jobs and improve livelihoods.
More than 710,000 people are displaced in Niger.
Migrants, internally displaced persons, and host communities require increased protection and assistance due to turmoil in Niger.
Mr. Gascon told reporters that he was also expecting the sanctions imposed on the country by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at the start of the political crisis, blocking the ability to bring in goods, to impact IOM’s operations.
Further obstacles to aid are looming in Niger, as late on Wednesday the country’s military leaders reportedly announced that they were barring UN agencies as well as non-governmental organisations from working in military operation zones.
The UN’s humanitarian affairs coordination office (OCHA) said that it was reaching out to the de facto authorities to better understand the implications and scope of the announcement.
Overall, some 4.3 million people in Niger are dependent on aid.
