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Quai des Charbonnages canal forms one of the borders of Molenbeek, Source: Depositphotos

Controversial Brussels municipality applies to be European Capital of Culture

Controversial Brussels municipality applies to be European Capital of Culture

For many years, Molenbeek’s reputation was linked to terrorism, but now it wants to show the world that it has turned a new page

Molenbeek-Saint Jean has applied to be one of the 2030 European Capitals of Culture. The central Brussels municipality aims to show the world its vibrant and multicultural side and it aims to clean up its tarnished image through the cultural programme.

With the application submission, Molenbeek becomes one of the six Belgian municipalities vying for the honour of being one of the first three cultural capitals to herald in the new decade on the continent. It faces competition from Ghent, Bruges, Kortrijk, Leuven and Namur. 

Molenbeek enjoys the support of all other 18 municipalities that comprise the region of Brussels.

We are confident that we will make it to the second round,” says Jan Goossens of Molenbeek 2030, quoted by VRT. “This is certainly a day of great joy and relief for us. Our dossier is the result of two years of intense cooperation with cultural centres in Molenbeek and across Brussels, two universities, diversity centres and the government. We are very proud of it.”

As European Capital of Culture, Molenbeek aims to showcase the city's socio-cultural initiatives and the

strengths of its historic and contemporary cultural sector

It is quite unfortunate that the municipality’s name, which was previously unknown to the larger global audience, became a household name in the wake of the 2015 Paris terrorist attacks and the 2016 Brussels attack as it was revealed that the Islamic State adherents had grown up and resided in that district.

Known for its multicultural demographics which was the result of an influx of immigration flows of workers (mainly from Morocco) in the 1950s and 1960s, Molenbeek wants to turn that dark page in its history and show off its more vibrant and cultural side.

As a showcase of what it can do, the local authorities are organizing MolenFest (12-22 September), which will include dance, circus acts, music, theatre, debates, and film screenings—will take place in parks, squares, and notable venues such as Recyclart and Kaaitheater.

The decision on which city will make it to the second round will be made in October.

The 2030 European Capital of Culture programme will have three winning cities: one from Belgium, one from Cyprus and one from a non-EU country, likely from an EU-candidate country.

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