What are the main concerns regarding the unemployment reform in Wallonia?

The primary concerns revolve around potential limitations on unemployment benefits and the belief that the reform will not effectively create new job opportunities.Job seekers also worry about the adequacy of support for those excluded from the workforce.

Why are unions disappointed with the government's response to the unemployment reform?

Unions feel the government isn't doing enough to address the potential negative impacts of the reform, particularly at the Walloon level. They are urging regional authorities to take proactive measures to support job seekers.

How much does unemployment cost the state annually?

According to protestors, unemployment costs the state approximately 6 billion euros per year, while employment aid amounts to around 60 billion euros.

What specific actions are unions requesting from the Walloon government regarding the unemployment situation?

Unions are urging the walloon government to take immediate action to prevent the unemployment reform from proceeding as planned, arguing that it will disproportionately impact Wallonia and further stigmatize the unemployed.

What is the 'zero unemployed territories' model, and how does it relate to the current debate on unemployment?

The 'zero unemployed territories' model, inspired by a French initiative, proposes that the state should act as a last-resort employer, offering employment contracts in the public or associative sector to job seekers. Unions argue that this commitment is not adequately reflected in the proposed reform.

What measures are being considered at the Walloon level to address the concerns about unemployment reform?

The Walloon government is exploring options for socio-professional reintegration, addressing barriers to employment such as access to nurseries, and considering the specific situations of individual job seekers.

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Namur

Technology

More than 2,000 backpackers expected all weekend at Festivan in Gembloux

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor August 10, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Gembloux, Belgium – Thousands of backpackers are converging on Gembloux this weekend for the annual Festivan festival, a celebration of van life and outdoor adventure.Organizers anticipate over 2,000 attendees,marking a notable turnout for the event now in its seventh year.

Festivan, held at the parc de la Dodaine in Gembloux, Wallonia, Belgium, offers a unique gathering space for enthusiasts of converted vans, campervans, and the nomadic lifestyle. The festival features workshops, demonstrations, and a marketplace showcasing equipment and services tailored to van life. Attendees can participate in activities ranging from DIY conversion tutorials to discussions on enduring travel practices.

This year’s festival, running from Friday, September 8th to Sunday, September 10th, includes a dedicated area for testing out off-road vehicles and a “builders’ village” where attendees can showcase their van conversion projects. New for 2023 is a focus on responsible tourism,with workshops addressing the environmental impact of van life and promoting Leave No Trace principles.

Festivan was founded in 2017 by a group of van life enthusiasts seeking to create a community-focused event. The festival has grown steadily in popularity, attracting attendees from across Europe, including France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The event’s location in Gembloux, approximately 30 kilometers south of Brussels, provides easy access for international travelers.

Beyond the practical aspects of van life, Festivan fosters a sense of community among its attendees. Evening events include live music performances and communal meals, creating opportunities for participants to connect and share their experiences. The festival also serves as a platform for small businesses specializing in van conversion and related products.

Organizers emphasize the importance of responsible van life, encouraging attendees to respect local environments and communities. They partner with local organizations to promote sustainable tourism practices and minimize the festival’s environmental footprint. The Parc de la Dodaine,a large public park,provides ample space for the event while minimizing disruption to the surrounding area.

Tickets for Festivan are available online and at the gate, with options for weekend passes and day tickets. The festival is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the marketplace and attend workshops even if they do not own a van. Further information,including the full event schedule and ticket prices,can be found on the official Festivan website: https://festivan.be/

August 10, 2025 0 comments

News

Unemployed Protest: CVs Delivered to Belgian Minister Coppieters

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com June 10, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Wallonia Grapples with Unemployment Reform Amidst Union Disappointment

Job seekers from across Wallonia and Brussels gathered in Namur recently to voice their opposition to the proposed unemployment reform. The protestors,including Antonio Fernandez,expressed frustration with the current job market,stating,”Our situation is not wanted,we are looking for work,but we do not find it.” Fernandez also questioned the allocation of state resources, highlighting the disparity between unemployment costs and employment aid.

Union Leaders Voice Disappointment After Meeting

A delegation of trade unionists met with government officials for a brief twenty-minute discussion. However, union representatives, including Yves Coppieters, emerged from the meeting expressing disappointment.Coppieters emphasized that while the matter is primarily federal, action is needed at the Walloon level to support those affected by the reforms.

Did You Know? The unemployment rate in the Euro area was 6.4% in april 2024, stable compared with March 2024 and down from 6.5% in April 2023, according to Eurostat.

Coppieters acknowledged the concerns of long-term unemployed individuals who feel they lack opportunities in the current job market, despite their willingness to work. He stated that the Walloon government is exploring ways to assist these individuals through socio-professional reintegration programs and addressing barriers to employment,such as access to childcare. “The Walloon government must prepare the ground well and that is what we are doing,” he insisted.

calls for Walloon Government to Take a Stronger Stance

clarisse Van Tichelen, another union representative, urged the Walloon government to adopt a more assertive position on the unemployment reform. She suggested that the Walloon Parliament could pass a motion calling for the suspension of work on the reform at the federal level, arguing that it will disproportionately impact Wallonia, fail to create jobs, and further stigmatize the unemployed.

Pro Tip: stay informed about local government initiatives and programs designed to support job seekers in your region. These resources can provide valuable assistance in your job search.

The CNE union also highlighted a previous commitment that “any job researcher would automatically be offered an employment contract in the public or associative sector, taking into account his profile and his training course,” based on the French “zero unemployed territories” model. van Tichelen noted that this commitment is not reflected in the program law currently under consideration in the federal parliament.

Impact of Unemployment Reform on Wallonia

The proposed unemployment reform has sparked notable debate in Wallonia, with concerns raised about its potential impact on vulnerable populations and the overall effectiveness of the measures. Critics argue that the reforms may exacerbate existing inequalities and fail to address the root causes of unemployment in the region.

Key Aspects of the Unemployment Reform Debate
Issue	Proponents’ View	Critics’ View
Benefit Limitations	Necessary to incentivize job seeking	May harm vulnerable individuals
Job Creation	Reforms will stimulate economic growth	Insufficient measures to create new jobs
Regional Impact	Fair and equitable across regions	Disproportionately affects wallonia

Federal vs. Regional Responsibilities

The debate surrounding the unemployment reform highlights the complex interplay between federal and regional responsibilities in Belgium. While unemployment policy is primarily a federal matter, regional governments have a role to play in supporting job seekers and mitigating the impact of federal policies.

Walloon government’s Response

The Walloon government is currently exploring various initiatives to address the concerns raised by unions and job seekers. These initiatives include socio-professional reintegration programs, efforts to improve access to childcare, and consideration of the specific needs of individual job seekers.

Understanding Long-Term Unemployment

Long-term unemployment, defined as being out of work for 12 months or more, presents significant challenges for individuals and economies alike. It can lead to skill erosion, reduced self-esteem, and increased social isolation.Addressing long-term unemployment requires a multi-faceted approach that includes job training, placement services, and employer incentives.

The International Labor Organization (ILO) emphasizes the importance of active labor market policies in combating unemployment and promoting decent work. These policies aim to improve job matching, enhance skills, and create a supportive environment for job creation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Unemployment in Wallonia

What are the main industries in Wallonia?: Key industries in Wallonia include manufacturing, logistics, and technology.
What resources are available for job seekers in Wallonia?: Job seekers can access resources such as career counseling, job training programs, and online job boards.

What are your thoughts on the proposed unemployment reforms? How can the government better support job seekers in Wallonia?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered as financial or legal advice. Consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

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June 10, 2025 0 comments

News

Chechen Terrorist’s Botanical Cover: How a “Disturbing Profile” Went Unnoticed

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com May 9, 2025

written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Belgium Grapples with Youthful Terror Threat: A Case study of Abdul-Kerim G.

Brussels, Belgium – belgium faces a persistent challenge with terrorism, notably involving young individuals. Recent cases highlight teh complexities and evolving nature of this threat,as demonstrated by the case of Abdul-Kerim G. and related investigations.

The Case of Abdul-Kerim G.

Abdul-Kerim G., a Chechen native, is at the center of a legal and social debate.subject to appeal by the federal prosecution, which had requested a 7-year prison sentence, Abdul-kerim, who has been preventively detained for over a year, may soon be released from prison.

Did You Know?

Preventive detention is a controversial legal measure used in many countries, including Belgium, allowing authorities to detain individuals suspected of planning serious crimes before they actually commit them. It aims to prevent potential harm but raises concerns about civil liberties.

Born in Chechnya, Abdul-Kerim arrived in France in 2012 with his father, who was later expelled to Russia in 2021 due to being considered a serious threat to state security. In Belgium, Abdul-Kerim integrated into his mother-in-law’s household. By October 2023, he began schooling in Namur, but quickly became isolated, spending all his time H24 on my phone. His behavior raised concerns, leading to his removal three months later due to his intense focus on Islam, persistent jihadist solicitations, and comments about young girls’ attire.

Communications on encrypted social networks revealed discussions about purchasing weapons and planning attacks. When asked if he would participate in an attack,Abdul-Kerim responded with a Why not?

I got on a train and it was difficult to go down. The train stopped, but the doors did not open. The only ones who managed to get me down are the police.

Abdul-kerim G.

The Botany Performance Hall Plot

On March 1, 2024, state security issued an alert regarding a planned attack by minors on the botany performance hall in Brussels. The federal prosecutor’s office swiftly responded, arresting three minors two days later. In a related case, four other young peopel, including three minors and an 18-year-old, where also arrested.

Pro Tip

Encrypted messaging apps are increasingly used by individuals involved in illegal activities, including terrorism. Law enforcement agencies face notable challenges in monitoring these communications while respecting privacy rights.

these cases are emblematic of the terrorist threat facing Belgium, where a third of those who foment attacks are under the age of 18. Between 2022 and 2024, nearly a third of individuals involved in planning attacks were minors. The botanical file remains under investigation in Ghent,while the adult from the related case has been returned to correctional authorities in Brussels.

Frequently Asked Questions

what is the significance of the Abdul-kerim G. case?

It highlights the challenges of dealing with radicalized individuals, particularly those with complex backgrounds and potential foreign influence.

Why are minors a concern in terrorism cases?

Minors are increasingly involved in planning and attempting attacks, posing unique challenges for law enforcement and deradicalization efforts.

What is Belgium doing to address the terrorist threat?

Belgium is actively investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in terrorist activities, while also focusing on prevention and deradicalization programs.

May 9, 2025 0 comments