The Brussels Region is a place where many cultures meet and blend together. Between 20 and 90 percent of residents here have foreign roots, according to one study. This colorful mix of different cultures, languages and lifestyles makes the city a unique place to live.
But what does it actually mean to live in the Brussels Region with foreign roots?? What is everyday life like for those who were not born in Belgium or whose parents come from other countries?? These issues are particularly important in times of migration and integration.
In this article, we will look at how the multicultural Brussels Region deals with this diversity and the challenges it faces. We will also look at the positive effects that international integration has on the city’s economy and cultural life.
A multicultural region
The Brussels Region is a vivid example of a multicultural region. Between 20% and 90% of residents have foreign roots or a migrant background. This diversity offers a rich cultural scene, diverse culinary options and a wealth of languages and traditions.
Nevertheless, this diversity also brings challenges. Cultural differences and language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, and the integration of migrants and refugees remains an important issue.
However, the Brussels Region is committed to promoting integration and protecting cultural diversity. This can be seen in initiatives such as the creation of shared public spaces, language courses and employment opportunities. The region also promotes intercultural dialogue and offers funding opportunities for organizations that work for integration and cooperation.
Overall, the Brussels Region represents an exciting example of a multicultural region dealing with its challenges and advantages. It remains to be seen how this diversity will evolve in the future and what solutions and initiatives will help create an inclusive and successful society.
Migration in the Brussels Region: A Complex Historical Development
The Brussels Region has been a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities for centuries. Already in the 15. German merchants and craftsmen moved to the city in the 19th century, followed by Italians and Spaniards in the 16th century. Century. In the 19. century, many people from Flanders and Wallonia migrated to the city to work in the fast growing industry. During the 20. At the beginning of the 20th century, numerous immigrant workers from Morocco and Turkey came to work in industry, mining and construction.
However, migration to the Brussels Region has not always been voluntary. During the Second World War, many Jews were deported from the city and murdered. After the war, many Belgian colonial troops and their family members from Africa moved to the city. In the 1990s, many refugees from the former Yugoslavia and other war zones came to Brussels.
The Brussels region today has one of the highest percentages of residents with foreign roots in Europe. Between 20 and 90 percent of residents have foreign roots, depending on the district. This multicultural population presents the region with many challenges, but also opportunities. Cultural diversity contributes to the economic and cultural development of the city, making it a unique place in Europe.
- Sources:
- Migration and Diversity
- Brussels Rises Above its History to Become a Truly Multicultural Place
Diversity and integration in the Brussels Region
The Brussels Region is a melting pot of cultures and languages. With up to 90% of its population of foreign origin, Brussels is one of the most diverse cities in Europe. This cultural diversity is both an opportunity and a challenge for integration.
In order to promote integration, structures and programs must be put in place to meet the needs and demands of different cultural groups. Thus, language courses, cultural activities and workshops are offered to facilitate exchanges between the different communities. The promotion of intercultural competences and the understanding of other cultures also play an important role.
With regard to the world of work, cultural diversity is an advantage that should be exploited. Companies can benefit from the integration of people from different cultural backgrounds by leveraging their knowledge and experience, thus increasing their innovative strength and competitiveness.
- Despite all efforts, integration remains a challenge.
- Especially in districts with a high percentage of people with foreign roots, there are often problems with integration.
- This can lead to social exclusion and dissatisfaction.

It is the responsibility of all stakeholders to see cultural diversity as an opportunity and to promote it through targeted measures and investments in education, culture and business.
The economic impact of residents with foreign roots in the Brussels Region
The Brussels Region has a long tradition as a multicultural city. People from different countries and cultures live together here. This diversity also contributes to the economic development of the Region.
The percentage of residents with foreign roots in the Brussels Region ranges from 20% to 90%. These people enrich society through their experience, their language skills and their cultural diversity. They often work in international companies and thus contribute to the economic strength of the region.
Immigration of people with foreign roots also creates new business opportunities. For example, there are many stores in the Brussels Region that sell food and goods from different countries. These businesses are of great interest not only to residents with foreign roots, but also to locals.
- The cultural diversity in the Brussels Region also attracts many tourists. Tourists not only visit the well-known sights, but are also interested in the city’s various cultural offerings.
- The immigration of people with foreign roots also has an impact on the labor market. Many of these people are highly qualified and have experience in a variety of fields. Thus, they contribute to the innovation and growth of the region.
Overall, it can be said that cultural diversity in the Brussels Region is a strength and has a positive impact on the economy. The immigration of people from different countries brings new impulses and business opportunities and contributes to the economic strength of the region.
The future of the multicultural Brussels Region
The Brussels Region is a melting pot of different cultures and languages. Between 20 and 90 percent of residents have foreign roots and most of them are second or third generation born and raised here. This multicultural society brings many challenges, but also great opportunities and potentials.
One of the biggest challenges is to create a just and inclusive society where all people have the same rights and opportunities. This includes combating discrimination and racism, which are unfortunately still present in the Brussels Region as well. Only by creating a society where everyone has equal opportunities regardless of their background, gender or religion can we realize the full potential of multicultural society.
Another important issue is integration and education. Brussels schools should provide more opportunities to encourage and support children from immigrant backgrounds. More offers must also be created to support adults with foreign roots in integrating and learning the national language. This is the only way we can ensure that everyone in the Brussels Region has equal opportunities for a good education and a successful future.
Overall, the multicultural Brussels Region offers many opportunities and potentials. If we manage to create an inclusive and equitable society and promote all people regardless of their origin, gender or religion, we will be able to realize the full potential of this society. This is the only way to ensure that the Brussels Region remains a place of diversity, tolerance and progress in the future.