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Belgian Culture and human rights Explained

This small nation is known for its linguistic diversity, with Dutch, French, and German as official languages, each contributing to the country’s cultural landscape. It is also a forerunner in human rights issues, despite its mixed history in this area.

Belgium’s cultural heritage is evident in its art, architecture, and cuisine. The country has produced renowned artists like Rubens, Magritte, and the Bruegel family, while its architectural gems range from medieval townhouses to Art Nouveau masterpieces. Belgian cuisine is world-famous, particularly for its chocolate, beer, and waffles. The country boasts over 1,500 beer varieties, and its brewing traditions have been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Belgian culture is varied, such as the Carnival of Binche

Belgians are known for their surrealist humor, self-deprecating wit, and love of the absurd, as exemplified by comics like Tintin and The Smurfs. The country also has a strong tradition of festivals and carnivals, with events like the Carnival of Binche showcasing colorful folkloric traditions.

Here are some selected articles on Discovering Belgium that touch on Belgian culture, including human rights, religion, and customs such as carnivals and other festivities.

Discover the World of Pigeon Racing in Belgium

Discover the rich history of Belgian pigeon racing, market prices, global demand, and current threats facing the industry…

Flanders vs. Wallonia: Key Differences Explained

Discover the main differences between Flanders and Wallonia in landscape, economy, culture, language, education, religion, and sport…

The Legend of the Three-Handled Beer Mug

A curious tale found in both Flanders and Wallonia…

The Tradition of Wipschieten in Leefdaal

A centuries-old village custom that still survives…

How to eat (or avoid) Filet Américain, the Belgian Specialty

A beloved delicacy in Belgium and enjoyed by many Belgians and visitors. But is it healthy?…

The Celebration of Sinterklaas in Belgium

How December 6 is celebrated across Belgium…

The Culture and Customs of Belgium

Culture Smart Belgium is a fascinating book that describes the country’s customs and culture…

Why do we remember the casualties of war?

Some thoughts on why we remember the soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War…

Procession of the Holy Blood – Bruges’ Living Tradition

A remarkable religious procession dating back centuries…

Belgium grants sex workers employment rights: A global first

Belgium is the first country to grant comprehensive employment rights to sex workers…

Belgium’s Colonial Policies are seen as a Crime Against Humanity

Five women allege that Belgium’s colonial policies were crimes against humanity…

LGBT+ Rights in Belgium – A Short Guide

How Belgium became a leader in LGBT+ rights in Europe…

Women’s Rights in Belgium – A comprehensive guide

Key milestones in the struggle for women’s equality…

Edward Anseele and Ghent’s Socialist Movement

The visionary who shaped Ghent’s early socialist movement…

Migrant Workers Rebuilt Belgium After WWII

How migration fuelled Belgium’s post-war economic recovery…

Exhibition: “Homosexuals and Lesbians in Nazi Europe”

Homosexuals and Lesbians in Nazi Europe is an exhibition in Kazerne Dossin in Mechelen  …

LGBT+ Rights in Belgium and the Negative influence of Religion

An overview of the influence of religion on LGBT+ rights, and why some religious communities are anti-LGBT…

Women’s Rights and the Role of Religion

An overview of the influence of religion on women’s rights, and its varied impact across faiths…

Where To Find An LGBT-Friendly Church in Belgium

The results of my small survey to discover LGBT-affirming churches in Belgium…

hope you find these articles interesting and useful. If you have a specific suggestion for an article on Belgian culture or human rights that you would like to see covered here, contact me and I will do the necessary research and write an article on it.