Event“Memory, National Solidarity, and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism” - Friday, March 20, 2026 – Brussels

The commemoration brought together policymakers, 16 diplomatic representations, first responders, victims, and civil society representatives. It aimed to reflect on the impact of these attacks, assess progress in counterterrorism and victim support, and renew commitments to solidarity, justice, and remembrance.

10th Commemoration of the Brussels Terrorist Attacks

Entitled “Memory,National Solidarity, and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism,” thegathering serves as a solemn tribute and a reaffirmation of democratic valuesin the beating heart of Belgian institutions. Choosing the Parliamentunderscores the critical importance of parliamentary vigilance in combatingradicalization and protecting fundamental freedoms.

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About Us

We are an independent, non-profit, think-and-do tank based in the capital of Europe that is committed to developing solutions to address the cyclical drivers of insecurity, economic fragility, and conflict in the Middle East and North Africa.

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3/20/2026

10th Commemoration of the Brussels Terrorist Attacks

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10/8/2020

Yemen’s Humanitarian Aid Response Plan: Biometric Technology and Civilian Security

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12/3/2020

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Press Release - Europe Day Relaunch: BIC Calls on European Leaders to End Complicity in Gaza Massacres

5/9/2026

Press Release - Europe Day Relaunch: BIC Calls on European Leaders to End Complicity in Gaza Massacres

Europe Day Relaunch: BIC Calls on European Leaders to End Complicity in Gaza Massacres

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Brussels, Belgium - 9 May 2025 - BIC intends to make new changes to the Gaza Letter Campaign

Since October 2023, more than 52,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza, including thousands of children, many of whom remain unidentified or have disappeared beneath the rubble. Just a few days ago, Israeli forces intensified their assault, killing 15 humanitarian workers in Rafah, in addition to their ongoing attacks on hospitals, caregivers, support staff, and paramedics in transit. Meanwhile, the strangulation of humanitarian aid continues, with the blockade plunging the region into an artificially created void, even forcing World Central Kitchen to shut down due to a lack of supplies and equipment.

Several international bodies, including United Nations agencies, are joining the ongoing reconstruction efforts and continue to call for peace and long-term stability in the region. Despite this, Israel nonetheless closed six United Nations schools in annexed East Jerusalem, three months after the implementation of a law banning the activities of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). This further reduces the aid available to Palestinians.

Despite growing international outrage and widespread public mobilization across Europe, European leaders have still not taken decisive action. BIC is therefore reactivating this citizen campaign to empower individuals, civil society, and the private sector to put direct pressure on elected officials and European decision-makers to break the silence and take urgent action.

A Renewed Europe-Wide Campaign

As part of the campaign, BIC previously published a template letter and will continue to update it often. An updated contact list of key European political leaders and advisers is also provided by the Center and wil be updated regulary.

European citizens will be encouraged to email their representatives to demand a clear stance on the crisis and meaningful policy responses.The campaign specifically calls on European leaders to:

Publicly condemn ongoing war crimes committed in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, including indiscriminate bombings and settler violence.
Support a comprehensive arms embargo on Israel, in line with recent restrictions announced by Spain, France, and Italy.
Suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement and apply targeted economic sanctions, following the lead of countries like Ireland and Spain.

This re-launch on Europe Day is meant to underscore the widening gap between Europe’s stated values -peace, dignity, and the rule of law- and the ongoing political complicity in a campaign that has destroyed entire communities and infrastructure in Gaza. BIC affirms that a just and sustainable peace begins with accountability, respect for international law, and the protection of civilian life.

? For press and media inquiries, contact:
info@bic-rhr.com

Event“Memory, National Solidarity, and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism” - Friday, March 20, 2026 – Brussels

3/23/2026

Event“Memory, National Solidarity, and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism” - Friday, March 20, 2026 – Brussels

Friday, March 20, 2026 – Brussels

Organized by the Brussels International Center

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Key Themes

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1. Transatlantic Solidarity and Cooperation
The U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, emphasized the enduring partnership between Belgium and the United States in responding to terrorism. Recalling the global impact of the September 11 attacks, he highlighted how moments of crisis have historically strengthened international cooperation.
Particular emphasis was placed on intelligence-sharing efforts between Belgian and U.S. authorities following the Brussels attacks. These were described as among the most extensive joint operations undertaken by the two countries, contributing to the identification and prosecution of perpetrators, including convictions delivered in 2023.
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Ambassador White paid tribute to the victims, including American nationals affected by the Brussels and New York attacks, as well as dual citizen survivor Karen Northshield, who was present in Zaventem at the time of the attack, and he also recognized the bravery of first responders.

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2. Remembering Victims and Supporting Survivors
A central focus of the event was the lived experience of victims and survivors. Testimonies by Aristide Melissas, Karen Northshield, and Valérie Gérard (who lost her niece in the Maelbeek attack) highlighted the long-term physical, psychological, and administrative challenges faced in the aftermath of terrorist violence.
Several speakers emphasized that, for many victims, the trauma remains ongoing. Survivors described continued struggles for official recognition, access to compensation, and adequate psychological support. Administrative procedures were often characterized as lengthy and burdensome, with some cases still unresolved years after the events.
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Legal representatives and victim advocacy groups, such as Life for Brussels lawyer Valérie Gérard and victims’ representative Myriam Vermandel, stressed the need for more consistent and structured support systems. Proposals included improving compensation mechanisms, simplifying administrative processes, and ensuring sustained assistance for victims and their families over time.

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3. The Role of the State and Public Institutions
Speakers from political and institutional backgrounds reflected on the responsibilities of the state in both preventing terrorism and supporting victims. While progress was acknowledged—particularly in terms of security coordination and judicial outcomes—several interventions underscored remaining gaps in victim care.
Concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of follow-up measures, both for victims and for individuals identified as having been radicalized. Participants called for strengthened monitoring systems and more comprehensive long-term policies.
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At the same time, the importance of maintaining social cohesion was highlighted. References were made to the need for inclusive approaches that reinforce trust between institutions and communities.

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4. Community, Unity, and Memory
Across interventions, there was a shared emphasis on unity, compassion, and collective responsibility. Speakers stressed that the response to terrorism must extend beyond security measures to include social solidarity and remembrance.
The role of communities, including civil society and local actors, was recognized as essential in both preventing radicalization and supporting victims. Several speakers highlighted how Muslim communities in Belgium have actively distanced themselves from extremist violence and contributed to broader efforts against radicalization.
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The importance of memory and recognition was also underscored. Honoring victims and first responders was presented as a fundamental component of national resilience, with calls for more sustained efforts to preserve collective memory.

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Conclusion
The commemoration served as a moment of reflection on the enduring consequences of terrorist attacks and the progress made over the past decade. While significant achievements were noted—particularly in international cooperation and judicial accountability—the event highlighted the need for continued efforts to support victims and strengthen institutional responses. Ultimately, the discussions converged on a shared message: the fight against terrorism is not only a matter of security, but also of solidarity, justice, and long-term care for those affected. Renewing commitments to these principles remains essential for building resilient and cohesive societies.

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3/19/2026

10th Commemoration of the Brussels Terrorist Attacks

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