EU VITAL CITIES

SCENARIO REPORT: BRUSSELS

Hannah Edmondson, Isaac Visperas, Chris Elsen, Kriss Muzikants, Alessandro Pierri

PREFACE
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CONTENTS PAGE

1. Introduction…………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………
1.1. Vision………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
1.2. Definition of Vitality……………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………
1.3. About the Team…………………………………………..………………………………………………………
1.4. Methodology…………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2. Current Situation of Brussels …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2.1. Political and Legal…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.1.1. Political and Legal History………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.1.2. City Policy, Marketing and General Image…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2. Economic…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2.1. Economic History…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2.2. Current Economy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2.2.1. Primary Sector…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2.2.2. Secondary Sector…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.2.2.3. Tertiary Sector…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.3. Population of Brussels………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.3.1. Demographic of Belgium………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4. Social……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1. Liveability………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.1. Amenities…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.2. Cost of Living……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.3. Crime…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.4. Education…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.5. Employment……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.6. Housing………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.1.7. Weather………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.2. Culture……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.3. Public Health…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.2.1. Public Health Structure………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.2.2. Health Status of the Population…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.2.3. Programs and Policies………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.4.4. Tourism…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.5. Technological………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.6. Environmental………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.6.1. Infrastructure and Urban Planning…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2.7. Current Position of Brussel’s physical activity and sports………………………………………………………………………………………………...
2.7.1. Role of important sports events……………………………………………………………………………………………………

3. Scenario for the Future……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

4. The End Result………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Vision

1.2. Definition of Vitality

Oxford Dictionary classifies vitality in two ways - “the state of being strong and active; energy” and “the power of giving
continuance of life, present in all living things” (Vitality | Definition of vitality in Oxford Dictionaries, 2018). Based on the given
assignment it was determined that the meaning of vitality, according to the consultants group includes, the mental, physical,
environmental and social well-being that a city has to offer for its residents.

1.3. About the Team

The consultants team includes five individuals working together, with different roles that allowed the vision and end scenario to
be determined. Hannah Edmondson and Chris Elsen are the main organisers of the group, delegating tasks and ensuring all tasks are
complete within the group. Individually, Hannah is responsible for the research and writing portion of the report and Chris is in charge of
the research for the report and her knowledge of French. Isaac, Aless and Kriss are in charge of more practical tasks like field research,
designing of presentations and other forms of research. With the combination of individual and group work, the consultants team were
able to gather masses of research and perspectives, that allowed them to determine the end vision and goal for Brussels. The
delegation of roles allowed for the group to stay productive and open-minded to the various perspectives and ideas held by one another
regarding the end advice.

1.4. Methodology

As a consultants group, it has been the goal to look at different aspects of the city of Brussels which can be improved. In turn,
these improvements have been based on the vision of the team and the ways in which it is believed that vitality can be improved
throughout the city.

It was crucial that the consultants team do an array of research into the different perspectives and situations of Brussels to
allow them to determine their vision. In conducting research, the team was able to determine their main goals for the city. Through this
form of methodology, as well as field research into the city to view the situations of the population, a vision was formed, allowing the
team to create a means of improving vitality and increasing physical activity, and general well-being of the population.

2. Current Situation of Brussels

2.1. Political and Legal

2.1.1. Political and Legal History

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 Brussels became a popular location for settlement in 695 after the building of a chapel named Place Saint Gery on the banks
of the Senne River by Saint Gery. Brussels was officially founded in 979 by Charles, Duke of Lotharingia who constructed Brussels first
charter (Brussels History, n.d.). From the 12th century Brussels became an important city under the role of the Duke of Brabants, which
made Brussels the capital city of the Duchy of Brabant from the 12 th-14th century (Brussels History, n.d.).

Brussels became the Princely Capital of the Low Countries in the 15 th century and began to flourish. It was ruled by the
Calvinists in the mid-1500s, and then reigned over by Archduke Albert I (1598-1633) (Brussels History, n.d.). In 1695, Brussels saw
great destruction during the Bombardment of Brussels, led by King Louis XIV of France (Brussels Population 2018, 2017).

French troops took over Brussels from 1746-48 (Brussels History, n.d.) but was later returned to Austria in 1749 (Brussels
Population 2018, 2017). The Brabant Revolt occurred from 1788-90 and Brussels was overtaken again during the Napoleonic Era
(Brussels History, n.d.). It was annexed in 1795 by France and was known as the Department of Dyle. In 1815, the city became part of
the United Kingdom of the Netherlands (Brussels Population 2018, 2017).

The Belgian Revolution began in 1830 (Brussels Population 2018, 2017) against King William of the Netherlands (Belgium’s
independence (1830 - present time), 2010), resulting in Belgium’s Independence (Brussels Population 2018, 2017). On the 21 st of July
1831, King Leopold I became the first king of Belgium (Belgium’s independence (1830 - present time), 2010).

During WWI and II, Germany occupied Brussels, however, minimal damage occurred. During this time, Brussels was part of
the Brussels Pact, which led to the initiation of the Western European Defence Cooperation (Brussels History, n.d.). Constitutional
reform occurred in 1988; the Brussels-Capital Region was created in 1989, and Brussels became one of three federal regions in the
country. Furthermore, Brussels after this point expanded into an urban agglomeration with a population of over 1 million (Brussels
History, n.d.).

2.1.2. City Policy, Marketing and General Image

Belgium is a federal state consisting of three language communities, who are in control of the culture and education in the
country, and three regions that are in charge of the economic development, infrastructure, and environment. The country has six
governments and six parliaments as a result of increasing federalization, demands for more cultural autonomy in each language
community and control over local economic development. The political system of Belgium is based on discussion and compromise
between different interest groups (Belgium, 2017). In some collectives like Brussels, Francophone and Flemish parties form cross-
political union lists such as Union des Francophone (UF) or Samen (Belgium, 2017).

Brussels includes a parliament and a government body. The parliament’s role includes preparing, debating and voting
on the laws in the areas of the region. It approves the regional budgets and overseas the Government, tasked with implementing
regional policy. The parliament is made up of 89 members that are elected by a universal franchise every five years. The parliament is
divided into two groups with 72 French-speakers and 17 Dutch-speakers (The Parliament of the Brussels-Capital Region, n.d.). The
parliament chooses the members of the government and the regional state secretaries from the elected parliamentarians. There are
seven permanent committees in the parliament, with each one responsible for one or more of the competences of the Brussels-Capital
Region (The Parliament of the Brussels-Capital Region, n.d.).

The government of Brussels is composed of a minister-president, 4 ministers, two French-speaking and two Dutch-speaking,
and three secretaries of state. The government is elected every five years by the parliament and are responsible for matters defined by
regional competences including urban development, planning, urban renewal, housing, public works, transport, economic policy, foreign
trade, employment, environmental protection, energy, local authorities, scientific research and international relations (The Government
of the Region, n.d.).

The Belgian military have to live with tight budgets, and military expenditure is seen as a necessity, not a source of national
pride. Likewise, the military is professional and separate from the rest of society, and is subject to strong parliamentary control
(Belgium, 2017). Belgium is a member of NATO, with its military forces being completely integrated into the alliance (Belgium, 2017).
Likewise, the European Parliament has three places of work including Luxembourg, which is home to the administrative offices, and
Brussels and Strasbourg in France, where plenary sessions take place between the whole parliament. Committee meetings are also
held in Brussels. It’s President is Antonio Tajani who was elected in January 2017 (Living in Brussels - Région bruxelloise - Brussels
Gewest, n.d.).

2.2. Economic

2.2.1. Economic History

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The official founding of Brussels in 979 transformed Brussels from a town into a city, and became the center of trade between Bruges,
Ghent and Cologne through the Senne River (Brussels History, n.d.). During the 1100s, marshes were drained to allow for expansion to
accommodate Brussels’ 30,000 residents (Brussels Population 2018, 2017).

Early trading accounts of Belgium show how Flanders was at the intersection of routes from the Netherlands to France, and
from Britain to the rest of Europe (Cendrowicz, 2017). During the 13th century the first set of city walls were completed (Brussels
Population 2018, 2017). This resulted in increased protection for inhabitants and caused growth of its population. A second city wall
was built shortly after to protect its citizens and its industry from exiting the walls (Brussels History, n.d.). Between the 12-14th century,
whilst Brussels was the capital of the Duchy of Brabant, Brussels would export various luxury items to Paris and Venice and artists like
Rogier van der Weyden would call Brussels home (Brussels History, n.d.). By the end of the Middle Ages, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp
became successors of the city-states of northern Italy as centers of wealth and commerce (Cendrowicz, 2017).

During the 1700s, Brussels was the center of economic development, occupations and revolts (Brussels History, n.d.). By the
early 19th century, economic and political maps of Europe were being redrawn and it was the Flemish cities that were thriving during
the Middle Ages that were now seen as backward peasant countries (Cendrowicz, 2017). Coal and metal were discovered in Wallonia
and entrepreneurs swar,ed the region with many coming from as far as Leeds, making Wallonia the economic powerhouse in Europe
during the Industrial Revolution (Cendrowicz, 2017).

After Belgium gained their independence in 1830, it was ruled entirely by French-speaking political elite (Cendrowicz, 2017),
and with it various changes occurred, including covering over the river Senne and constructing buildings to fill the city (Brussels
Population 2018, 2017). Likewise, the walls of the city were taken down and replaced by boulevards in the shape of a pentagon,
following the original outline of the Old Town Brussels, called the Inner Ring Road (Brussels History, n.d.). Rapid growth of the
population followed and by 1849 Brussels had 123,000 inhabitants (Brussels History, n.d.). Under French-speaking rule, French de
facto became the only language for education, politics, military, business and religion in the region, however, Dutch was still
acknowledged in the Belgian constitution (Cendrowicz, 2017).

By the end of the 19th Century, Wallonia’s coal industry was seeing potential for decline, but this decline only occurred after
1950 (Cendrowicz, 2017). After WWII, Brussels went through a period of modernisation leading to the opening of the Brussels Metro in
1976 and the construction of many modern buildings replacing many historic buildings in the process (Brussels History, n.d.). By the
1970s, mines and factories in Wallonia started to close and its unemployment rate began to rise. However, during this time, Flanders’
industry began to flourish and many outside investors helped its expansion of its light and petrochemical industry from the 1960s
(Cendrowicz, 2017). The port of Antwerp is now the second largest in Europe, whilst its entrepreneurship, education system and its
worker ethos began to pay off (Cendrowicz, 2017).

2.2.2. Current Economy

Brussels is known as the Capital of the European Union (EU) and is home to many national and multinational companies, with
approximately 50,000 businesses of which 2,200 are foreign with constant increase (Brussels Economy, 2017). The EU headquarters
are in Brussels, providing significant job opportunities for current residents and foreigners (Brussels Economy, 2017) including embassy
workers, workers for international companies, and the press media (Brussels Economy, n.d.). Brussels holds over 1,000 business
conferences a year, making it the fourth most popular conference city in Europe, and the seventh most important financial centre in the
world (Brussels Economy, 2017). Brussels offers benefits for expatriates in terms of taxes, with having every penny spent out of the city
being deductible. Likewise, roughly 60% of foreign companies have their headquarters in Brussels including well-known companies like
Delhaize, Besix, and Sabca (Brussels Economy, 2017.).

Nonetheless, these opportunities for the city have caused the French and Dutch locals to become a minority within the workplace
of EU institutions, despite being majority inhabitants of the city. Despite this, it is these changes, and the investments of the 1900s, that
have resulted in Belgium becoming one of the world’s top economic performers (Brussels Economy, 2017.).

Within Brussels includes the Brussels Central Region (BCR) as well as the Brussels Metropolitan Area (BMA) including the BCR,
Walloon Brabant Province and the Flemish Brabant Province, concluding the entity of the peripheral ring of Brussels. Within the entire
city, 30% of Belgium’s salary workers are employed with 59% of the urban areas salaried employment being concentrated in the BCR,
equalling to 5% of the city’s entire territory, thus, providing twelve times the density of jobs out of the entire area. Half of the 350,000 of
individuals who work in the BCR commute daily from the region’s outer ring (Baudewyns, 2007).

The BMA accounts for one-third of Belgian economy. However, income is unequally distributed over the residential area. Likewise,
the BCR is faced with a problem of unemployment affecting the lesser skilled residents in particular (Baudewyns, 2007). Less than 60

6
percent of the population was employed as of 1999, including 19.5 percent in part-time jobs. Nonetheless, the repartition in sectors is
as follows: 73 percent in services, 25 percent in industry, and 2 percent in agriculture (Belgium, 2017).

2.2.2.1. Primary Sector

In terms of the primary sector within the economy, Belgium’s current economy is heavily dependent on foreign trade. Most of
the country is nuclear powered, making the country less dependent on fossil fuels, but still in need of imported fuels after the country
closed its coal mines during the 60s. It trades mostly with neighbouring European countries with 76% of exports and 71% of imports
being with E.U. partners (Belgium, 2017).

Likewise, less than 3% of the country is involved in agriculture, however, farm production is intensive with livestock raising being
the most important single sector, accounting for over 60% of agriculture production in the country. Belgian farmers breed some of the
finest draft horses in the world, including the famous Percherons (Belgium, 2017).

2.2.2.2. Secondary Sector

Industry within Belgium is highly developed and is dedicated to the processing of imported raw materials into semi-finished and
finished products, which are then exported (Belgium, 2017). The leading areas of production within Brussels include electronics, heavy
chemicals and explosives to pharmaceuticals and photographic suppliers (Belgium, 2017), printing, publishing, clothing,
telecommunications, aircraft construction and the food industry (Brussels Economy, 2017).Other various products that Belgium
produces includes several industrial minerals, including limestone, dolomite, whiting, sodium sulphate, silica sand, marble Belgium,
2017), steel, crude zinc and crude lead, with Belgium ranking high among work producers of Iron and steel (Brussels Economy, 2017).

The bulk of metal manufacturers consists of heavy machinery, structural steelwork, and industrial equipment. The railroad
equipment industry supplies one of the most extensive railroad systems in Europe (Belgium, 2017). It is also considered the world’s
diamond capital with annual turnover of the diamond industry at $23 billion in 1996 and contributed $3 billion to the Belgium economy
(Belgium, 2017).

Nonetheless, the city’s infrastructure is also favourable with regards to starting new businesses. However, housing prices have
increased, especially for young professionals settling down, thus, making Brussels one of the most expensive cities to live in (Brussels
Economy, 2017.).

2.2.2.3. Tertiary Sector

Within the economy, 88% of jobs are within the service sector (Brussels Economy and Business, n.d.). The service and public
industries play a large role within Brussels, with service industries accounting for 9%, and its exports another 9% from Belgium
(Belgium, 2017).

The growth within the industry is due to its status as the Capital of Europe as well as its history and expertise in banking,
chocolate, beer and pharmaceutical research. It contributes to one-fifth of the national GDP and accounts for 17.7% of Belgium’s
employment with its 550,000 jobs presently. Likewise, there are over 2,000 foreign companies offices within Brussels. (Brussels
Economy and Business, n.d.). Within Brussels are 3,000 life sciences researchers in the city and two large science parks: Parc Da
Vinci and Erasmus Science Park. The health sector employs 70,000 employees in 30,000 companies. There are five university
hospitals, a military hospital and more than 40 general hospitals and specialist clinics (Brussels Economy, 2018).

Brussels is the home base for international banking since the establishment of the Société Générale de Belgique in 1822.
Companies include Swift, Banksys and Euroclear with an additional 60 other banking offices and a spin-off ICT industry has increased
to service the needs of the financial transactions industry. This has resulted in the establishment of 4,500 ICT firms in Brussels.
Additional bank related industries includes the Brussels Stock Exchange in the centre of the business district, making it a common
meeting point for people in the city (Brussels Economy, 2018). Nevertheless, with Brussels large beer and chocolate culture, beer is
served in all restaurants, cafes and cars with 172,000 tons of chocolate being produced every year (Brussels Economy, 2018).

2.3. Population of Brussels

Population: Density per km2: Population Growth:

2,429,800 1,063/km2 5% (2015-2020)

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 Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

2.3.1. Demographic of Belgium

Median Age: Elderly People: Life Expectancy at Birth: Languages:

41 18% of population 81 years Dutch, English, French

Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

2.4. Social

2.4.1. Liveability

In determining the livability of a city, seven categories with dozens of data points, across multiple data sets, are focused on
and given a score. The total of these scores provide a score out of 100 which is the livability score of a given area. The categories that
are focused on includes amenities, cost of living, crime, education, employment, housing and weather (Methodology: The Livability
Score, 2010).

To the right provides basic scores provided by the Brussels population ranking their quality of life in the city. Based on this, it
can be seen that Brussels offers a high quality of life through housing, business start ups, travel connectivity, business freedom, safety,
healthcare, education, environmental quality, economy, leisure and culture, and tolerance (Kallas, n.d.) (see appendix 1).

Due to the terrorist attacks that occured in Brussels, Brussels has been downgraded on the list of the world’s most liveable
cities to 27th in 2017 from 21st in 2016. Other data sets account for this ranking including aspects like infrastructure, traffic congestion,
pollution, public services, social environment and schools. As Brussels was the target for attacks at its airport and metro station in 2016,
the city has been on red alert ever since (Kroet, 2017).

There are other various aspects that have influenced Brussels liveability including the idea that Brussels is without a vision for
the future which politicians of all levels and communities can support. Without this vision, Brussels will be unable to become the
European Capital of Culture. In order for this to occur and for Brussels to become more ‘livable’ various policies have to be put into
place (Harding, 2016).

2.4.1.1. Amenities

Based on the data presented by Kallas (n.d.) (see appendix 2), amenities provided in Brussels is in excess. As seen on the
data, intercity train connectivity was scored 69%, traffic handling was scored 75%, healthcare quality was scored 92%, and life
expectancy scored 86% when compared to other countries analysed by Kallas.Likewise, according to the data there are a variety of
leisure and cultural activities provided in the city with mass numbers of art galleries (scored 83%), cinemas (75%), comedy clubs (92%),
conceners (94%), historical sites (84%), museums (79%), sports venues (98%) and zoos (92%) (Kallas, n.d.).

Based on this data it can be seen that Brussels offers a large range of activities and venues that allow residents and tourists to
be physically and mentally active. Through the large providence of these amenities, Brussels becomes more attractive and able to
sustain/entertain its large population and cultural demands. Likewise, it can be seen that Brussels has a high quality healthcare and
regard for its residents, with healthcare expenditure being scored 86% and life expectancy being at 81%. Through this advancement,
potential and current residents ensured of quality healthcare and that the necessary tools are provided for them when in need of
medical attention.

Lastly, this data shows that the city caters for and ensures intercity connectivity (scored 69%) and handling of traffic (scored
75%). This shows that travel and connectivity within and to the city is easy and accessible in all areas of the city.

2.4.1.2. Cost of Living

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In comparing the cost of living of Brussels to other countries (see appendix 3), Brussels has a very high cost of living with bread being
30% more expensive than the average cost of world cities, beer being 23% more expensive, lunch 63%, monthly public transport at
11% and a 5 km taxi ride at 33% more expensive than other cities around the world (Cost of Living in Brussels, Belgium, n.d.).

According to Kallas (n.d.), Brussels cost of living is in the top 20% of the most expensive places to live worldwide, with inflation
at 45%. Additional research also claims that those working in Brussels choose to live outside of the city based on the high cost of living,
as well as lack of housing being provided over apartments (Vermeersch, 2014).

2.4.1.3. Crime

According to the research completed by Kallas (n.d.) (see appendix 4), Brussels has been noted as the 196th safest country
out of 266 countries analysed by Teleport.org. Based on the data, the crime rate has been scored as 43%, with low numbers of gun
related deaths per year. This shows that residents feel safe within their environment and that minimal serious crimes are committed.

Nevertheless, some crime still occurs, mainly within the city centers rather than rural areas, including muggings, bag
snatching, and pickpocketing (Crime in Belgium - A Quick Guide for Travelers, 2018).

2.4.1.4. Education

PISA is the Programme for International Student Assessment which surveys international schools and evaluates education
systems worldwide (About - PISA, n.d.) (see appendix 5). Based on this assessment PISA ranks Brussels high schools at 83%.
Likewise, 82% of students have claimed to be happy in school. Likewise, the University quality has been ranked at 51% (Kallas, n.d.).
This shows that the educational quality in Brussels is above average and that residents can be confident in that their children will
receive a good quality education in international or local schooling environments.

2.4.1.5. Employment

The unemployment rate in Brussels is at 8% and carries the 260th position (last) out of all cities analysed by Teleport.org (n.d.)
(see appendix 6) in personal taxation with rates progressing up to 50% by communal surcharges ranging from 0% to 9% of the tax bill.
Additionally, Brussels was ranked 228/260 (low) out of all Teleport.org cities on corporate tax. Brussels VAT is at an average of 21%
(Taxes in Brussels, Belgium, n.d.).

This shows that the cost of living is high in Brussels based on the heavy level of taxation. However, with the economy being
high, with high GDP and steady growth rate, the residents in Brussels have opportunity to thrive. Likewise, this is possible due to low
corruption and high business freedom within the workplace (Kallas, n.d.).

2.4.1.6. Housing

In comparing housing to other cities around the world, the cost of a large apartment is 1% more expensive than the world
average, a medium apartment is 8% and a small apartment is 4% more expensive than the world average. Likewise, these
comparisons show that the cost of housing is 18% less expensive than cities like San Francisco (Cost of Living in Brussels, Belgium,
n.d.) (see appendix 7).

As housing is more expensive than the average costs around the world, this shows that younger business men and women
may struggle to find accommodation close to their places of work. Likewise, as costs are higher, the same issue may arise for students
and families, thus result in their choice to commute from more rural areas outside of the city.

2.4.1.7. Weather

Based on this data, Brussels has low quality air (37%) and low cleanliness (29%). This is the result of congestion and
population growth, causing increased forms of pollution and decreased air quality (Kallas, n.d.). Additionally, air quality reports have
shown an improvement on air quality within Brussels, however, there is still the exposure to excessive concentrations of the four most
important air pollutants (Belgium Country Briefing - The European Environment, 2017) (see appendix 8). Nonetheless, Brussels
experiences the marine west coast climate type with average day lengths of 12.9 hours throughout the year. Temperatures range from
5-22°C annually (Kallas, n.d.).

2.4.2. Culture

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 Over 30% of the Brussels population is managed abroad, and 23% of its inhabitants are of non-Belgian European origin. Thus,
the Brussels-Capital is characterised, amongst other things, by the diversity of its inhabitants at a cultural level. Although Brussels is a
melting pot for various cultures, it still has its own unique familiarities like its beer, chocolate, comic strips and more. Brussels produces
more than 100 types of beer and has the famed ‘Belgian Brewers Museum’, attractive to many tourists ("10 absurdly good reasons to
visit Brussels", n.d.). Likewise, there are countless museums around the city focused on chocolate culture. The ‘Beer and Chocolate
Tour’ allows tourists and locals to enjoy both cultural trademarks of the city ("The beer and chocolate tour", 2016).

Additionally, Belgium is the birthplace of comic strips, with home to more than four comic strip museums including: The
Belgian Comic Strip Centre, the Maison de la Bande Dessinée (FR), the Marc Sleen Museum, one of the biggest names in Flemish
comics, and the Museum of Original Figurines (Genard, Corijn, Francq & Schaut, 2018). This proves as evidence of the abundance of
museums within the city, with no less than 80 museums, providing both cultural and economic benefit for the city (Visit Brussels, 2017).
Museums include a large range of themes from surrealist art to botanical gardens (Culture, 2018).

Likewise, there are many cultural centres in Brussels for all languages that host many cultural events and workshops for
residents and visitors. Brussels includes an abundance of theatres and concert halls, cinemas and film festivals, and a number of
libraries and other attractions to cater for all visitors or residents of Brussels (Culture, 2018).

Known as the “Capital of Europe” due to the build-up of European activity and the development of the European Quarter in the
east-side of the city ("Brussels Institutions", n.d.), one can see large legislative buildings such as the European Union, European
Parliament and the European Commission. This has placed Brussels under the spotlight for many years, with many summits and
conferences held there.

2.4.3. Public Health

2.4.3.1. Public Health Structure

The Belgian Healthcare system revolves around compulsory health insurance, with 99% of the population obtaining universal
coverage (European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017). There are two levels of the healthcare system
including the federal level and the regional level. There is a shared responsibility for healthcare policy between the federal government,
the Federal Public service Social security, the national institute for Sickness and Disability Insurance, and the Dutch, French and
German speaking community ministries of health (Vandijck and Annemans, 2018).

The Federal government is responsible for regulating the compulsory health insurance and hospitals, financing hospitals and
heavy medical care units, and sets minimum standards, legislates professional qualification, registers and controls prices of
pharmaceuticals. The federated entities are responsible for health promotion and prevention, providing maternity and child health care,
social services, community care and collaboration in primary health and palliative care, and financing hospital investment (European
Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017). The regional governments are responsible for health promotion,
maternity and child health services, aspects of elderly care, implementation of hospital accreditation standards, and financing of
hospital investment (Vandijck and Annemans, 2018). The healthcare system is primarily funded through social security contributions
and taxation, and is based on the principles of equal access and freedom of choice. All individuals who are able to receive Belgian
health insurance must join with a sickness fund. Belgian sickness funds receive a budget from the INAMI to finance the healthcare
costs of their members (Vandijck and Annemans, 2018).

Healthcare expenditure in Belgium is about 10.5% of its GDP (Vandijck and Annemans, 2018), with public spending accounting for
77% of the overall health spending. There are different types of hospitals in Belgium including general acute care hospitals (115),
specialized hospitals (20), geriatric hospitals (8) and psychiatric hospitals (68) (European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies,
& OECD, 2017).

2.4.3.2. Health Status of the Population

Demographic: Men: Women:

Average Age 36.1 38.7

Life Expectancy (2014) 78.1 83.4

Births (2014) 9,471 9,043

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 Deaths (2014) 4,276 4,756

(Lamouline, 2016)

The population of Brussels has a relatively healthy population with various policies and systems in place to ensure the
improvement of health statistics. There have been improvements in various areas of the health of the population, and an increase of life
expectancy from 77.9 years in 2010 to 81.1 years in 2015 (see appendix 9). This is above the EU average and due to the mortality rate
reductions after 65 years. However, at age 65, Belgian woman can expect to live only about 50% of their remaining years free of
disability, and men 60% (European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017).

Deaths: Disability-related health:

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among
Belgian women, and the second leading cause of death among
men (see appendix 10) (Belgian Federal Government, 2017),
with number of deaths from Alzheimer’s and other dementias
increasing.
This reflects the effect of population ageing, better diagnosis and
lack of effective treatments, and changes in coding practices.
30,260 people died from cardiovascular diseases in 2014 (31%
of all deaths among women and 27% of all deaths among men)
(European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, &
OECD, 2017).
Musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes and major depressive
disorders are some of the leading determinants of disability-
adjusted life years in Belgium. These disorders have serious
consequences on health-related quality as it results to various
types of disabilities (European Observatory on Health Systems
and Policies, & OECD, 2017).
1/23 people in Belgium live with asthma, 1/14 live with chronic
depression, and 1/20 have diabetes (European Observatory on
Health Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017).

Lung cancer is the main cause of cancer death (see appendix 74% of the Belgian population report being in good health,
11), followed by colorectal cancer and breast cancer. 27,200 however, a large gap in self-rated health occurs by
deaths from cancer, accounting for 23% of all deaths among socioeconomic status, 88% of high income people report being in
women and 29% among men (European Observatory on Health good health, compared with less than 60% of people with low
Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017). income reporting the same (European Observatory on Health
Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017).
Social Inequality:
There is a large inequality in life expectancy by socioeconomic
status. At age 50, Belgian men with the lower level of education
can expect to live about six years less than those with the
highest education level. The gap among women is about five
years (European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, &
OECD, 2017).

Risk Factors:
28% of the overall burden of disease in Belgium in 2015 can be attributed to behavioral risk factors, with smoking, alcohol use,
dietary risks and lack of physical activity contributing the most (see appendix 12) (European Observatory on Health Systems and
Policies, & OECD, 2017). Behavioral risk factors are more common among populations of lower income or education. In 2014, 23%
of adults who had not completed their secondary education were daily smokers, compared to 10% of those with tertiary education.
20% of people without secondary education were obsess, compared to 10% with higher education (European Observatory on Health
Systems and Policies, & OECD, 2017).

Smoking: Alcohol: Physical Activity and Diet:

There are a number of tobacco control
policies that have helped to slightly
reduce tobacco smoking.
19% of adults reportedly smoked daily in
2014, a reduction from 24% in 2001.
Smoking amongst adolescents has also
reduced from 23% in 2001 to 10% in
2014.
Alcohol-related harm is a major public
health concern with only limited policy
actions taken so far to address them.
Overall alcohol consumption has
increased since 2000 and the major
challenge is to reduce its consumption.
In 2014, Belgium reported the second
highest consumption of alcohol across
the EU, with 12.6 litres consumed per
adult, compared to 9.9 average. 28% of
adults reported in 2013 regularly consume
Obesity rates among adults has
increased in Belgium in the last decade.
14% of adults were obese in 2013, up
from 12% in 2001. 16% of 15 year olds
were overweight or obese in 2014, up
from 11% in 2001. 2013-14 only 13% o 15
year olds reported doing moderate
physical activity per day, lower than most
EU countries. 9% of 15 year old girls
reported doing physical activity compared
to 17% of boys (European Observatory on
Health Systems and Policies, & OECD,

11
 heavy alcohol. About 20% of 15-year-old 2017).
adolescents reported have been drunk at
least twice, down from 30% in 2002.

Obesity:
Obesity is associated with daily alcohol, lack of leisure time physical activity and tobacco use use in the Brussels. Obesity is a major
public health issue due to the negative impact of the quality of life, and the role it plays in the developments of serious chronic
conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers, and premature deaths. Results from the Belgian Health Interview
Survey revealed a linear increase of almost 28% of the national prevalence of obesity between 1997-2008 (Drieskens et al., 2014).

Imbalance between dietary intakes and energy expenditure through physical activity plays a role in the increase of obesity. This is
the result of unhealthy diet and physical inactivity, a consequence of social changes and economic development by which people rely
mainly on motorised transport or new technologies causing them to spend their time sedentary (Drieskens et al., 2014).

Alcohol consumption and tobacco use play a role in the increase of obesity, with high consumptions in alcohol resulting in abdominal
obesity in men, and heavy smoking resulting in low physical activity, poor diet and greater alcohol intake. Physical activity is too low
in all Belgian regions to efficiently counterbalance the prevalence of obesity (Drieskens et al., 2014).

Mental Health:
Office Burnout/overachiever syndrome is becoming an increasing issue within Belgium. In 2016, 80,000 Belgians suffered from
burnout according the the National Institute for Sickness and Invalidity, costing €600 million – that’s 10% of the annual health budget.
Burnout has been defined by chronic stress caused by physical and mental exhaustion and breakdown, accompanied by allientation
from workplace activities and reduced performance. Various employees from the workplace have named unmanageable workloads,
unrealistic expectations, ambiguity about their role, low job satisfaction, lack of recognition, an unhealthy work-life balance, and
workplace harassment, as factors that cause stress (Crew, n.d.).

The parliament produced an infographic on mental health, showing that work related stress is the second most reported work-related
health problem, and is one of the leading causes for absenteeism and early retirement in the EU. the report shows that 79% of
managers in Europe are concerned about stress in the workplace, however, less than 30% of workplaces have procedures in place
to deal with this (Crew, n.d.).

2.4.3.3. Programs and Policies

As Belgium is a country part of the EU, there are various policies that have been put in place by the EU, and executed by the
various countries involved. With regards to public health, the EU has created policies which aim to 1. Protect and improve the health of
EU citizens, 2. Support modernisation of health infrastructure, and 3. Improve the efficiency of Europe’s health systems. In determining
these policies, strategic health issues are deliberated by representatives of national authorities and the European Commision in a
senior-level working group on public health. EU institutions, countries, regional and local authorities, and other interest groups
contribute to the execution of the EU’s health strategy (Overview – Public Health – European Commission, 2018).

Mental Health Policies:

Since November 2016, burnout has been recognised by Belgium’s health ministry as a work-related illness, resulting in various
prevention initiatives. It has been acknowledged of the cost-benefits of implementing inexpensive mental health programs in the
workplace (Crew, n.d.).
1. New reporting systems have been put in place to allow employees to report problems that could lead to burnout, placing the
employees responsible for noticing the symptoms and taking measures to solve them (Crew, n.d.).
2. Ophélie Martin of NGO, Mental Health Europe (MHE), has said that the European Union (EU) and Belgium are placing mental
health higher on their agendas saying: “The recent proclamation of the European Pillar of Social Rights is an opportunity to
improve services across Europe that will contribute to preventing mental ill health, promoting the wellbeing of millions of people in
Europe, and supporting people living with mental ill health and psychosocial disabilities,” (Crew, n.d.).
a. The MHE campaign promotes positive health in the workplace by encouraging bosses to be more positive about mental
health and create an environment of openness, preventing mental health from being an uncomfortable topic to discuss
(Crew, n.d.).
3. Co-founder of stress management clinics in Brussels, Vandenbosch, works on building resilience within businesses and with
individuals and says: “A new code on employee wellbeing provides psychosocial audits for those susceptible to stress in the
workplace. If you ask people to work a lot, you need to give them the means to do so, so we try to make managers aware of not
continually applying pressure on employees.” (Crew, n.d.).
4. Community Health Service (CHS) in Brussels is a mental health service for the international community of Brussels and other
private practices in Brussels and Antwerp, helping individuals suffering from burnout. She claims ambitious expat professionals
are classic burnout victims who “put everything into their work as they come from another country”, but don't have any social
circles, resulting in work-life in-balance (Crew, n.d.).

12
 The European Commission’s
Directorate for Health and Food Safety
supports the efforts of the EU countries to
protect and improve the health of citizens
and to ensure accessibility, effectiveness
and resilience of their health systems.
This is done through various means
including:
1. Proposing legislation
2. Providing financial support
3. Coordination and facilitating the
exchange of best practices between
EU countries and health experts
4. Health promotion activities
(Overview – Public Health – European
Commission, 2018).
The Commission aims to promote
investing in health, taking the form of
promoting effective, accessible and
resilient health systems, investing in
health through disease prevention and
health promotion, and fostering health
coverage as a way of reducing inequalities
and tackling social exclusion, as a means
of achieving smart, sustainable and
inclusive growth (Overview – Public
Health – European Commission, 2018).
Legislation:
The EU can adopt health legislation under
the Treaty on the Functioning of the
European Union (Article 168:
protection of public health, Article 114:
approximation of laws, and Article 153:
social policy). The Council of the EU is
able to address recommendations on
public health to EU countries.
Areas that have adopted legislation
include:
1. Patients’ rights in cross-border
healthcare
2. Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
(pharmacovigilance, falsified
medicines, clinical trials)
3. Serious cross border health threats
4. Tobacco
5. Organs, blood, tissues and cells
(Overview – Public Health – European
Commission, 2018)
Instruments for co-financing:
The Health Program provides funding to
projects on health promotion, health
security and health information.
The Horizon 2020 research program
supports projects in areas such as
biotechnology and medical technologies.
The EU cohesion policy supports
investments in health in EU countries and
regions
Priorities for 2016-2020:
When focusing on public health, actions
taken by the EU are mainly linked to
incentives and cooperation measures. The
European Commission plays an important
support role by which they provide
guidance and tools to promote
cooperation and help national systems
operate more effectively.
The action taken focuses on:
1. Achieving greater cost-effectiveness
2. Competitiveness together with safety
3. Tackling emerging global threats such
as antimicrobial resistance
4. Addressing the risk factors of non-
communicable diseases
5. Promoting vaccination (Overview –
Public Health – European
Commission, 2018).

2.4.4. Tourism

As the center of European culture and institutions, Brussels has an abundance of tourist attractions including its famous
chocolate and beer, and over 80 museums, beautiful artitecture, bars and more. The city is easy to reach with affordable prices,
becoming accessible to all visitors. As a cosmopolitan city, there is much to enjoy like good food, a unique culture and great nightlife.
Popular attractions in the city include the Grand-Place, the Atomium and the Manneken-Pis. Brussels has its own airline and railway
connections, going to destinations like Paris in around an hour and a half. However, after the 2016 terrorist attacks, occupancy rates
dropped down to 53.6% compared to 72.1% in 2015. In 2018, the occupancy rates have raised to 70%, showing improvement and a
brighter future (Brussels Info desk, 2018).

2.5. Environmental

2.5.1. Infrastructural and Urban Environment

(Bruxelles Mobilité: Real Time Mobility, n.d.) (Brussels, Belgium Map, n.d.)
(Brussels, Belgium Map, n.d.)

13
 Brussels Cycling Routes:
In Brussels there are dense cycling routes around the city.
However, there is no inclusion of lanes or paths on smaller roads
outside of the central areas. This shows that riding a bike around
the city is an inefficient mode of transport because there is a lack
of access around the city.
Google Images Terrain/Satellite Maps:
Based on these images it can be seen that Brussels has a very
green suburban environment, with great evidence of urbanisation
within the actual city. The terrain map shows evidence of
industrialisation as wells as evidence of parks and other green
spaces. The maps also shows evidence of cultural centers and
developed road systems.

(Topographic Map, n.d.) (Brussels Map Metro, n.d.)

(Map of Brussels, 2018)

Topographic Map: Metro/Railway Map: Sports Stadiums and Centers:

Red within the map shows high altitude
with green showing low altitude. Based on
this map it can be seen that Brussels is
not densely populated by mountains but
does mean that transportation via cycling
or walking would be strenuous. Brussels
ranges from roughly 40 to 407 ft above
sea level.
Use of public transportation around the According to this map, Brussels includes
city allows the population to travel via 14 sporting halls within the city, mainly on
cheaper and more eco-friendly means. the northern side. This shows efforts of
This shows economic development of the increasing physical activity and sports
city as well as efforts to reduce carbon participation.
footprint. Multiple access routes shows
accessibility throughout the city and
means for more physical activity due to
the added need and combination of
walking rather than being able to drive
directly to specific locations.

2.5.2. Infrastructure and Urban Planning

Brussels is known for being one of the only truly global cities within Europe, and is an architectural melting pot known for extreme
‘Brusselization’ (Vermeersch, 2014). Many of what is today’s infrastructure in Brussels is based on the post-war decision of Brussels
authorities to demolish old buildings and neighbourhoods and replace it with new buildings and roads everywhere to improve the
commute from the suburbs into the city. What is Brussels today is known for its masses of rubbish, collapsed roads and endless
roadworks due to a complicated governance system, with the Brussels-Capital being one of three federal regions, with 19 communes,
compromising regional power (Robinson, 2015).

The cityscape of Brussels is heavily congested with aggressive car-centered planning from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, with much room for
improvement. Being a very unclean city, there is many issues with illegal dumping and smells of urine in public transportation. Likewise,
there are cases of smog alerts within the city due to extreme air pollution; and, heavy noise pollution fills the environment with loud
trams, car horns and extreme construction works. However, much of this noise pollution subsides during the weekends due to
commuters staying in the suburbs and away from the city (Vermeersch, 2014).

Issues revolving around the poor urban planning of Brussels also includes construction of suburban train networks which have been
under construction for decades, the metro only serving some neighbourhoods, and buses and trams constantly being stuck in traffic.
One of the best means of transport is cycling in the city, however, due to intensive hills and limited infrastructure, many individuals
chose to walk around the city, especially when based in the city-center (Vermeersch, 2014).

Many taxpayers are unhappy with the role they play due to the inefficiency and lack of attention the authority has over the city’s need
for development. It is the local governments who have failed to drive progress and prevent stagnation, resulting in many organisations
forming to potentially solve infrastructural issues. Organisations formed include the likes of Brussels Together, an activist group who

14
aim on using technology to accelerate change in the city where the political system will not, Refugees Got Talent, and Womer
(Johnson, 2017). Other initiatives have been presented to improve the situation of cyclists in the city including “PING if you Care”, an
initiative that allows cyclists to push a button where they are experiencing unsatisfactory cycling infrastructure. With the recorded data
from these cyclists, the city of Brussels can visually see the areas that are in need of renovation. This will provide a clear guide for city
authorities with regards to future cycling investments in the city (News Editor, 2017).

2.5.2.2. Infrastructure and Urban Planning Authorities

Brussels Urban Development:
Role is to manage the balanced,
consistent and sustainable development
of the Brussels-Capital land, whilst also
meeting the basic, social, economic and
environmental needs of the population.
They are responsible for:
● Planning
● Urban Development
● Housing in Brussels
● Urban Renewal
● Heritage property.
(Urban Development, n.d.)
Direction Etudes et Planification (DEP):
Works to find the right balance between
social, environmental and economic goals
of the city by planning the region’s
territorial development.
They:
● Monitor strategic planning and
regulatory planning
● Manages studies and monitors
centers that evaluate the
implementation of these plans
● Assures communication with the
public and represents Bruxelles
Dévelopment urbain
● Running the permanent
secretariat of the Commission
Régionale de Développement.
(Urban Development: Planning, n.d.)
Direction de l’Úrbanisme of Brussels
Urban Development:
Tasks:
● Ensures the proper application of
the regional planning regulations
● Checks the conformity of
planning or land parcelling
permission granted by the
communes
● Conducting environmental impact
reports
● Manages urban planning
violations
● Handles appeals
● Informs public bodies and
general public
(Urban Development: Urbanism, n.d.)

2.6. Current Position of Brussels’ Physical Activity and Sports

2.6.1. Role of Important Sports Events

15
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17
APPENDICES:

Appendix 1

18
Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

Appendix 2

Travel Connectivity: Leisure and Culture: Health Care:

Intercity train connectivity 0.69 Art galleries [score] 0.83 Healthcare Expenditure 0.86
[score] [score]

Commute: Cinemas [score] 0.75 Healthcare Quality [score] 0.92

Traffic Handling [score] 0.75 Comedy clubs [score] 0.92 Life Expectancy (years) 81.06

Concerts [score] 0.94 Life Expectancy [score] 0.86

Historical sites [score] 0.84

Museums [score] 0.79

Performing arts [score] 0.93

Sports [score] 0.98

Zoos [score] 0.92

Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

Appendix 3 Appendix 4 Appendix 5

19
Cost of Living: Safety: Education:

Beer $2.40 Crime Rate [score] 0.43 Best University in KU Leuven

Ranking
Bread $1.00 Gun-related deaths per 2
100,000 residents per year Country mean scores in 518.81
Inflation [score] 0.45 PISA math test
Guns per 100 residents 17
Monthly Fitness $49.00 Country mean score in 508.62
Membership Lack of gun related deaths 0.95 PISA reading test
[score]
Monthly Public Transport $64.00 Country mean score in 504.87
Lack of guns [score] 0.91 PISA science test
Price of meal at $89.64
Restaurant Lack of guns and gun- 0.93 PISA ranking (high 0.83
related deaths [score] school) [score]
Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels,
Belgium. Retrieved from Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Percent of Happy 0.82
https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/ Belgium. Retrieved from Students
https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/
University Quality [score] 0.51

Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels,

Belgium. Retrieved from
https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

Appendix 6

Economy: Taxation: Business Freedom:

Currency exchange rate 0.85 Effective company profit 0.28 Business Freedom [score] 0.88
per US dollar for urban tax rate on payouts as
area dividends [score]

GDP Growth Rate 0.27 Income tax level [score] 0.10 Freedom From Corruption 0.82
[score] [score]

GDP per capita $42973.4 Profit tax (% of profits) 0.59 Lack of Labour Restrictions 0.46
[score]

GDP per capita [score] 0.69 Time overhead to file 161

company taxes

VAT (sales tax) 0.21

Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

Appendix 7 Appendix 8

Housing: Environmental Quality Outdoors:

Large Apartment $1400.00 Air Quality [score] 0.37 Elevation (hills or 0.13
mountains) [score
Medium Apartment $1200.00
Cleanliness [score] 0.29 Median peak in meters 117.5
Rent Index [score] 0.64
Drinking Water Safety 0.51 Urban area elevation 34.00
Small Apartment $880.00 [score] (meters)

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 Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Urban Greenery [score] 0.67 Water access [score] 0.70
Belgium. Retrieved from
https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/ Kallas, K. L. (n.d.). Quality of life in Brussels, Belgium. Retrieved from
https://teleport.org/cities/brussels/

Appendix 9

https://statbel.fgov.be/en/themes/population/life-expectancy-and-life-tables

Appendix 10

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Appendix 11

Appendix 12

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