Brussels is a dynamic multilingual region of crucial diplomatic importance, constituting a major economic crossroads. Lying at the heart of Europe, it is appreciated by international enterprises, congress-goers and tourists for its accessibility and its open, cosmopolitan character. In the context of Belgium’s Chairmanship of the Council of Europe, the Brussels Capital Region is organising several events on the political and cultural plane.

Bureau of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities
In accordance with a settled tradition, the country chairing the Council of Europe hosts the first meeting of the Bureau of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities. Accordingly, the Brussels Capital Region’s federated entities express its welcome to this Bureau on 1 December 2014 at the Palais d'Egmont.

Electronic tools of local democracy
Coinciding with the 12th meeting of the administrations in charge of electoral operations, the Brussels regional public service is to organise a gathering of European experts on the theme “Tools of electronic democracy: collection of information and of citizens’ demands, tools aiding decision-making, and communication tools. The aim is to highlight the new tools which technology offers to local decision-makers for maximum efficiency.

Brussels Jazz Orchestra & David Linx "Brel"
The Brussels Jazz Orchestra was awarded an Oscar in Hollywood for the music of the film "The Artist". Adding to the blend the international fame of the Brussels singer David Linx and Brel’s music, you have a captivating combination and a project for five-star musical theatre. The project will be premiered in Strasbourg in March 2015 as part of the cultural programme of the Belgian Chairmanship of the Council of Europe.

Landscape Award
Within the scope of implementation of the Council of Europe European Landscape Convention, the Brussels Capital Region will carry out this year the selection procedure for the Belgian landscape award.

This two-yearly competition, organised in rotation by each region of Belgium since 2010, honours an exemplary achievement in the field of landscape enhancement.