Cross-border cooperation in East Belgium

Participation for EU officials from Brussels and Luxembourg as well as ministerial officials from the permanent representations of the EU member states

Language level: B2 - C1

In Belgium, Dutch and French are spoken – as well as German, but only by just under 80,000 inhabitants. It is therefore not without reason that the German-speaking community of Belgium (DG) is often referred to as the best-protected minority in Europe. And even beyond that, this narrow strip of land between the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Rest of Belgium occupies a special position, and not only in terms of language. This is precisely what our weekend German course will focus on.
Content and program highlights:

• Political characteristics of the DG (discussion with MEP Pascal Arimont and visit to the Parliament)
• Current challenges as a border region (discussion with Minister for Culture, Sport, Tourism and Media Gregor Freches) 
• Industrialization of the region using the example of the Kelmis zinc smelter (with a visit to the museum)
• Cultural program Chanson duo “Fishing for Angels”

Mandatory kick-off meeting: Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Course time for weekend course: Friday, November 28, 2025, from approx. 1:00 p.m. (arrival in Eupen) to Sunday, November 30, 2025, approx. 3:00 p.m. (end of program)
Course location: Eupen, East Belgium (overnight stay at Heidberg Monastery)