Flanders is inter natio nal Responsible editor: Julie Bynens, Secretary General of Chancellery and Foreign Office Government of Flanders Herman Teirlinck Building Havenlaan 88 box 100 1000

Coordination: Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Office (Hilde Creten, Eline Franckaert, Koen Jongbloet)

Layout: Hearts&Minds, Brussels

In collaboration with: Flanders Investment & Trade, Visit Flanders, Peace Institute, VLEVA and in the world.

Date: January 2021

Depot number: D/2020/3241/319 Preface

Dear Reader,

For centuries, Flanders has been a hub for international politics, trade and culture. It remains so today. We host both the and NATO. We are the 15th largest exporter worldwide. We are home to people of 191 different nationalities. And our cultural cities are a magnet for world-class arts events.

Retaining our central place throughout the centuries is thanks in no small part to our native entrepreneurship, adaptability and ambition - tempered by our objectivity and realism. We recognise that we are dependent on the world around us for our prosperity and development. Then as now, Flanders must be international, or it is not Flanders.

However, during the Covid pandemic, Flanders was confronted with the dependence and vulnerability that comes with an open economy. The impact of the crisis will be felt for a long time to come. In response, Flanders launched the recovery plan “Flemish resilience”, which should reinforce the prosperity of Flanders and the well-being of the Flemish people.

Meanwhile, international solidarity remains the foundation for our active foreign policy. We represent our interests in various ways across multiple domains, always with a keen sense of the global interests at play. Because, ultimately, what is good for the world is also good for Flanders.

Flanders agrees fully-fledged international treaties, organises diplomatic and economic services abroad, and manages its own foreign policy budget. Flanders’ foreign policy takes shape through the Chancellery and Foreign Office and is implemented in cooperation with the other departments and agencies.

In this brochure you will read more about our goals and our approach to realising them. I would like to invite you to learn more about Flanders.

Julie Bynens Secretary General of Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Office Contents

Flanders is international - Facts & Figures 5

1. Foreign Policy in five dimensions 8

Flanders as a diplomatic actor 8

Trade at the service of employment and prosperity 14

Cross-border relations through Culture, Tourism and Science 18

Global support for sustainable transition 24

Human rights, peace and security 28

Flanders’ Foreign Network 32

2. Foreign Policy Actors 34

Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Office: Shaping and implementing policy 34

Flanders Investment & Trade: The Go-To organisation for international business 36

VISITFLANDERS: Putting Flanders in the spotlight as top destination 38

The Flemish Peace Institute: Monitoring peace and security 40

Liaison Agency Flanders-Europe (VLEVA): Building bridges between Europe and Flanders 42

Flemish people in the world: Treasuring the bond with the homeland 44

3. Legal framework 46

Legal context and background 46 5

According Number of to the KOF inhabitants (2017) GDP in GDP per Surface: 6.516.011 Flanders: capita: Globalisation 13,522 km2 Index, Flanders EUR 270 EUR billion 37,600 is one of the most globalised economies in the world. FLANDERS IS INTERNATIONAL Facts & Figures

Brussels is: Flanders: 3 Capital of logistics centre of Flanders and Western Europe 3 Capital of the EU 3 Headquarters London of NATO 4 4 3 2nd-largest Frankfurt ports airports diplomatic hub in the world Paris 916 km 1,607 km of motorway of railway

of the European consumer market 60% within a radius of 500 km

Antwerp’s P.P. 4% Rubens is known as a baroque 3% painter by 20 to 40% of the 2% Flanders invests 2.92% of its population in GDP in research and development 1% India, Japan, China, (2018), holding the 9th place

the US and Brazil. 0% Japan Sweden Denmark Finland Germany USA Flanders worldwide for R&D expenditure. Development cooperation 3 partner countries in southern Africa EXPORT EUR 325 billion (goods, 2019)

IMPORT EUR 313 billion (goods, 2019) IMPORT Malawi

South Africa Mozambique

Top 5 export destinations (2019)

GERMANY NETHERLANDS FRANCE UK USA 1 EUR 58,3 billion 2 EUR 41,6 billion 3 EUR 39,9 billion 4 EUR 25,8 billion 5 EUR 18,2 billion

Top 5 investors (2019) USA NETHERLANDS UK FRANCE GERMANY 1 45 projects 2 40 projects 3 28 projects 4 23 projects 5 22 projects (17,44%) (15,50%) (10,85%) (8,91%) (8,53%)

Foreign investments Top 5 in Flanders international 2017 EUR 2,08 billion migration to 2018 EUR 4,24 billion With 3,3% Flanders (2019) 2019 EUR 5,20 billion job seekers, unemployment in Flanders 2017 1 NETHERLANDS is among the lowest 2018 in Europe (2019)

2019 2 POLAND

3 ROMANIA 258 5384 new new 9% of Flanders’ residents have projects jobs a foreign nationality 4 MOROCCO 2/3 from the EU 1/3 non-EU 5 ITALY

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In 2019, Flanders spent more than EUR 51 million on development cooperation

Main export sectors Flanders is the 15th exporter worldwide (WTO) 1 Chemistry and pharma EUR 74,5 billion Every year

2 6037 students Transport equipment go abroad through the Erasmus+ EUR 44,0 billion programme. That is 80% more than 10 years ago 3 Machines and electrical equipment EUR 36,1 billion 4 7 Mineral products in EUR 28,9 billion Flemings 5 10 In 2019 there were over Plastic and are positive about applications EU membership 26 million EUR 26,4 billion overnight touristic stays in Flanders People of 191 different nationalities live in Flanders

‘Flanders Trainee In total, the Government of International institutions in Brussels Programme’ Flanders spends more than annually sends about EUR 150 million annually employ approximately on foreign policy 49.000 people 80 trainees in all its facets to multilateral organisations Foreign policy 1. in five dimensions Flanders as a diplomatic actor European Union: The Fulcrum Flanders engages of Our Foreign Policy proactively in foreign The added value of the EU for every citizen’s daily life can hardly be policy at multiple levels: overstated. In scores of policy areas, European decisions are the foundation the European level; on which member states and regions build. For these reasons, the EU is the fulcrum of our own foreign policy. bilateral level (in relation to individual states or Diplomatic Ties with the EU federated states); and at the multilateral level. Flanders represents its values and The Representation of Flanders interests within the EU on two tiers: operates within Belgium’s through direct contacts with the Permanent Representation to EU institutions, and on behalf of the EU. Its autonomous team of Belgium. This last activity is based on more than twenty staff members an intra-Belgian framework ensuring (seconded from all policy areas a cohesive approach to EU positions, of the Government of Flanders) and representation for our region negotiates daily within the European in negotiations within European institutions. institutions. This framework provides Flanders and the other federated states a large degree of direct involvement and representation, unparalleled in other Member States.

Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Office is responsible for the coherence of Flemish input into European decision-making processes. As the diplomatic link between Flanders and the EU, its role is chiefly one of coordination: of the MORE Flemish position on issues such as about the General Representation of trade policy, the European budget, Flanders to the EU can be found at cohesion policy, European Semester, www.flandersineu.be public governance and Brexit; and on the adoption of EU legislation into Flemish law. The Errera House in Brussels, the official 8 residence of the Government of Flanders. 9 The Government of Flanders’ 2016 • A reinforced Schengen zone, with Vision Statement on the future of properly-functioning external A Guiding Vision the EU functions as a touchstone border controls. for the Government of Flanders • Providing specific support for socio- Foreign policy for the Future services when it comes to evaluating economic reforms in the Member European policy and legislative States and federated states. proposals. • Generating a reinvigorated investment framework that adheres in five dimensions The Vision Statement identifies 10 to the Stability and Growth Pact. core interests with respect to the EU: • Fostering effective social policy, particularly addressing social • Safeguarding our shared dumping and fiscal shopping. fundamental values, standards and • Broadening the European Monetary freedoms; and championing them Union, with the completion of the across the world. Banking Union as a priority. • Expanding the internal market to include an energy, transport and digital union. • Effecting a breakthrough for the most strategic trade agreements with state-of-the-art investment protection. • Expanding the European Research Area through research programmes to catalyse the knowledge- based and low-carbon economy of tomorrow. And, this as part of an ambitious and effective sustainability policy including the whole implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement. • A powerful foreign and security policy, especially in Europe’s 21 September 2020 – Michel Barnier, the chief negotiator on behalf of the EU for Brexit, neighbouring regions. was received at the Flemish by Chairwoman and Minister- president . ©

Flemish EU Diplomacy: Three Core Interests

Trade Policy: Creating Sustainable outside the EU, it does so with Opportunities for Enterprises a mandate determined by the The Government of Flanders is Member States. strongly committed to the Common Commercial Policy, in line with the Flanders is responsible for its own

specific interests of the Flemish export promotion and policy, and VISION STATEMENT VISION OF THE economy. therefore also for supporting Flemish FUTURE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION companies in their international The EU has exclusive competence activities (more on p. 14 ff.). for the Common Commercial Policy. When the European Commission Multilateral and bilateral free trade participates in negotiations on agreements also create structural multilateral trade liberalisation within and sustainable trade liberalisation, the World Trade Organization and which in turn creates more Vision for the Future of when it negotiates bilateral free trade opportunity for our companies on the European Union agreements with major markets the international stage. bit.ly/2DrRLZ3

EU budget: Investments with Added Value The EU subsidises a wide range of projects within Flanders’ areas of competence (including research, development, innovation, education, transport, cohesion, agriculture A new partnership with the UK Investment & Trade will continue and the environment). In its turn, The United Kingdom’s departure to provide information and monitor the Government of Flanders also from the EU poses a significant stakeholder needs and concerns contributes resources to European challenge for Flanders. As our fourth- across a variety of topics and sectors projects and is responsible for largest trading partner, the UK is linked to Brexit. Issues are raised managing them in cooperation with of particular economic importance. with decision-makers in EU and the European institutions (examples Brexit has consequences in many Belgian institutions. include cohesion policy and rural areas, from everything related At the same time, Flanders development policy). to trade, fisheries, transport and Chancellery and Foreign Office will research. Flanders regrets the continue to build on the strong ties Flanders Chancellery and Foreign UK’s departure from the EU and between the UK and Flanders. Office represents Flemish values and acknowledges that this departure The UK remains a neighbour with interests in the negotiations on the will certainly change the current whom Flanders shares important European (multi-annual) budget, relationship. Flanders Chancellery trade, cultural and historical ties. the NextGenerationEU recovery and Foreign Office and Flanders Brexit will not change this. instrument, cohesion policy and InvestEU Fund. 30 august 2020 – Secretary-general Patricia De Clercq representing Flemish Minister for Agriculture, , during the Informal Meeting of Agriculture Ministers in Koblenz, Germany. © BMEL

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Bilateral Dialogue with Countries and Regions

The international role played by Working with neighbouring countries Of equal importance are culture the Government of Flanders is often involves transport connections and education, as well as future not limited to EU matters. The or other issues related to logistics, EU regulations. Flanders has Government of Flanders maintains infrastructure, energy or the concluded numerous treaties close ties with other national environment. One such agreement, with neighbouring countries for governments and federated states. with the Netherlands, is for the cooperation in these areas. Trade issues, such as cooperation deepening of the Scheldt river or between ports or research and the joint construction of a new sea Flemish development cooperation development, are often high on lock. Another example is the treaty is also predominantly bilateral the agenda when engaging with that Flanders concluded with France and has taken form through countries outside the EU. Ultimately, and regarding the Lys discussions and negotiations with many of our policy goals necessitate Mitoyenne. the governments of South Africa, direct consultation and/ or Mozambique and Malawi. cooperation with those countries.

Focus on the North

The Coalition Agreement of the Government of Flanders (2019- 2024) deliberately focused on the North of Europe for inspiration, benchmarking and international cooperation. “My government will draw inspiration from and connect with the northern countries of Europe for its policies. I am working on a strategy to strengthen links with the North Sea and Hanseatic countries, and look towards Scandinavia and the Baltic to forge strategic alliances.” 14 October 2019 – Minister-president Jan Jambon is received by Minister-president of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte at Catshuis in The Hague. © Belga Image The main focus will be on economy and innovation – with special attention to technology and Research & As of 2018, Flanders is Development. Flanders also party to 39 exclusive intends to build stronger bilateral treaties and alliances with Northern 211 Memoranda of countries in the EU-decision Understanding making process. Autonomous regions

Flanders maintains long- standing cooperation with autonomous regions and federated states, like Catalunya, Basque Country, North Rhine-Westphalia, Quebec and Wales.

30 November 2019 – Minister-president of the Catalan Government, Quim Torra, received Minister-president Jan Jambon at the Palau de la Generalitat in Barcelona. © BELGA Nicolas Maeterlinck

To facilitate these agreements, All this results in a busy the Government of Flanders has international agenda. Members of bolstered Flemish diplomacy by the Government of Flanders meet establishing bilateral diplomatic annually with their counterparts missions in The Hague, Berlin, in more than 30 missions abroad. London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, Vienna, Conversely, more than 30 foreign Warsaw, New York, Pretoria and, from ministers or official delegations are 2021, Copenhagen. More information received in an average year at the about these can be found in the final political level by the Government section of this brochure. of Flanders.

12 December 2018 – neon-artwork referring to the work of Belgian artist René Magritte, on display during the signing of the cooperation programme specifically aimed at young artists and youth theatre between Flanders and Quebec.

MORE about Flanders’ bilateral relations with other countries and regions is at bit.ly/2FscEWn

25 November 2019 – Minister-president Jan Jambon met the Austrian Chancellor Brigitte Bierlein in Vienna during his mission to Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic. 12 13

25 - 27 September 2015 – UN Headquarters in New York, USA, during the United Nations 13 November 2019 – Minister-president and Sustainable Development Summit 2015. (© UN Photo) Flemish minister for Culture Jan Jambon at the General Conference of UNESCO in Paris, France. Multilateral Cooperation

In addition to its cooperation with This involves two-way traffic Flanders has gone on to sign and within the EU, and its direct between the Flemish and the cooperation agreements with these cooperation with countries and international levels. Flanders and other large UN organisations, regions beyond the EU, Flanders also influences international policy and such as UNAIDS, ILO and WHO, in participates in many multilateral regulations by actively participating which specific financing mechanisms organisations. in forums and administrative bodies. are provided.

Multilateral partnerships are Flanders also uses international Today, Flanders is a reliable donor to particularly effective for setting regulations and international UN agencies such as UNESCO and the specific policy targets like ensuring recommendations from the Food and Agricultural Organisation dignified work, children’s rights and multilateral institutions to shape its (FAO) and is the largest subnational gender equality. own policy. donor to the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund.

The Government of Flanders also enjoys active partnership in the Council of Europe, OECD and UNWTO, as well as with the WTO and the World Bank group. To streamline the cooperation between the Government of Flanders and these institutions, two multilateral posts were set up within the Flemish diplomatic network: one in Geneva and one in Paris.

16 January 2020 – Flemish Minister for Home Affairs, Public Governance, Civic Integration and Equal Opportunities, , at the OECD Ministerial and Policy Forum on Migration and Integration in Paris, France Trade at the Service of Employment and Prosperity

International trade is part of Flanders’ DNA. Just think of , and - cities that rose to prominence centuries ago as major trade centres in Western Europe. Today, 100.2% of the region’s GDP is earned through international trade: twice the EU average. In absolute terms, Flanders is the 15th largest exporter in the world, exporting three times as much per capita as Germany. Even so, we are always looking to further enhance our position because markets never stand still. We continuously invest in infrastructural improvement, and in developing our wide range of tools for stimulating international trade and promoting free trade agreements.

14 1515 Flanders’ international trade policy objectives:

International Trade and Foreign Investments • Improve market access • Remove trade barriers Export Promotion • Liberalise services and for Our Companies The importance of foreign trade can investments scarcely be overstated. As a centrally- • Open market for located region, at the heart of a Flanders autonomously promotes prosperous and productive Western public procurement export and supports Flanders-based Europe, foreign trade is the main • Safeguard intellectual companies that are active in and artery of Flanders’ economy. Exports property rights export to foreign markets. A network increased year on year reaching • Include SMEs of 97 offices in 76 countries helps 325.1 billion euros in 2019. Similarly, companies market their goods and imports of foreign goods achieved • Consider the multilateral services to every corner of the world. a new record of 312.6 billion euros framework Furthermore, the network also guides in 2019. Flanders’ export ratio and • Protect sensitive sectors foreign investors to Flanders. export per capita are among the • Promote sustainable highest in the world. development Trade Agreements Within the European Union, it is and Free Trade the common market that ensures the free movement of all goods and services, capital and people. The EU Competence for trade agreements internal market is very important and free trade is shared between and positive for trade within and Flemish exports of goods outside Flanders and the federal government. beyond Europe. 71.1% of Flanders’ Europe amounted to € 75.4 billion Flanders’ trade interests are exports go to the European Union, in 2019. Here again, the European represented directly by Flanders, or with the most important markets Union plays an indispensable role in a coordinated Belgian position, for goods located in neighbouring as its European Commission depending on the forum. Free trade countries. Directorate-General for Trade agreements can only be approved represents all Member States in with Flanders’ consent. all trade agreements with third countries.

Influencing EU policy

Flanders plays a proactive and The European Trade and Investment Due to the comprehensive and positive role in the development and Protection Policy Working Group diagonal nature of the trade and implementation of European trade is responsible for the permanent investment policy, all entities and policy. Specific areas of attention monitoring of European trade policy powers of the Government of include: the interests of SMEs; further and coordination between Flanders’ Flanders can take part. Flanders liberalisation of the trade in services; policy departments. It also represents Chancellery and Foreign Office the reduction of non-tariff barriers Flemish trade positions in federal, coordinates the tasks of this working to trade; the importance of flexible European and international contexts. group. labour mobility; and the potential Civil servants and representatives for trade as a tool for sustainable of the Ministers of the Government Via the General Representation of development. of Flanders come together in this Flanders to the EU, a finger is also working group. kept on the pulse of the European Commission, and European trade contacts are maintained. Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) is barriers, for instance, by discussing the region’s specialised agency for these issues in the Market Access promoting export and investment. Its Advisory Committee of the European mission is to support Flanders-based Commission, EU Member States and exporters and to attract foreign European business federations. investments to Flanders. Consequently, FIT’s dedicated hotline The Trade Barriers Hotline – solves problems for the companies accessible via the FIT website – involved, and provides strategically helps companies address their important information about the specific trade problems in markets needs of Flanders-based companies. outside Europe. In cooperation with This information also contributes the European Commission, FIT and to defining the position of the Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Government of Flanders in trade Office aim to resolve these trade negotiations. Export Lion – Annual award of Flanders Investment & Trade for Flemish companies with exceptional export figures.

Flanders Accelerates! This co-creation initiative has • Optimising services for international resulted in the formulation of the companies based in Flanders. To keep performing when it comes following objectives, which are • Maximising Flanders’ economic to internationalisation of the Flemish part of the ‘Flanders Accelerates!’ strengths: pharma & biotech; economy, FIT has developed and internationalisation strategy: food & beverage; engineering & conducts the internationalisation technology; smart logistics; and strategy ‘Flanders Accelerates’ in • Offering a clearer range of support sustainable (raw) materials & cooperation with its partners, which services for companies operating chemistry. include companies, civil society internationally. partners, knowledge institutions • Examining how start-ups can be Beyond these initiatives, FIT has set and government actors. supported more efficiently in their up the ‘Export Lion’ annual award for internationalisation plans. Flemish companies with exceptional export figures. FIT is organising a biennial Export Fair.

With ‘Tech makes Flanders Tick’ new efforts are bundled to sharpen the focus of Flanders as a science and technology hotbed. The aim: offer Flemish tech companies a competitive edge abroad, attract foreign tech players and connect companies and research centres.

Flanders International Economic Summit 2019 16 17

Maintaining and Improving Infrastructure

Easy accessibility is the single most In one of the most densely- important requirement for trade, populated areas of the world, inland not least because three-quarters of waterways offer sustainable, export continues to be goods. As reliable and environmentally-friendly a centrally-located region with a connections between large industrial 19 May 2020 - Flemish Minister for Mobility and strong trading spirit, the transport zones and service centres. This is Public Works, Lydia Peeters, pictured during and traffic infrastructure in Flanders why upgrading the Seine-Scheldt a new phase in the works for the Oosterweel Connection in Antwerp. © BELGA Jasper Jacobs is traditionally very dense. In fact, connection has been a top priority Flanders has the second densest rail in recent years. It is an exciting Flanders also promotes its water and road network in Europe and has investment for Flanders, as it is for expertise internationally, among four airports. The logistics sector is France and Wallonia, because so far, otherways, by participating in the responsible for no less than 9% of the two river basins have never been Mekong River Commission. This Flanders’ GDP. optimally connected. The project platform for regional cooperation is one of the 30 priorities of the focuses on the management Given the importance of a well- European Ten-T initiative (Trans- of shared water resources and the developed infrastructure for the European transport network). sustainable development of the competitive position of Flemish Mekong River region. As a companies, the Government of The 3RX project is another development partner, Flanders will be Flanders is constantly investing in emblematic, cross-border project. For closely involved in water diplomacy maintenance and improvement of years, Flanders has been making the in the Southeast Asian region. the infrastructure. In recent years, case for a rail connection for goods special attention was paid to the between the , the The intended collaboration also accessibility of the Flemish ports Netherlands and the German Ruhr creates opportunities for Flemish (Antwerp, Zeebrugge, Ghent and area. In this ‘missing link’, selected by business and its expertise in an Ostend) by conducting, among other the European Commission area that is geostrategically things, dredging works, organising as a Ten-T project in 2015, the gaining in importance. The technical new locks and focusing more on Government of Flanders cooperates approach of the organisation makes faster transit times. through diplomatic channels with it possible to focus on water-related the relevant authorities in the and environmental themes where Netherlands, Germany and North Flanders shows itself to be a Rhine-Westphalia. global player.

CURRENT INFORMATION on major infrastructure and mobility sites can be found on the Department of Mobility and Public Works website bit.ly/2RZLZlf Shrine of St. Ursula by Hans Memling, 15th century

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Cross-border Connections through Culture, Tourism and Science

Flanders’ foreign policy focuses on culture, science, education and tourism. Hardly surprisingly considering Flanders is known across the world for its ancient and contemporary culture, as well as for being an innovative knowledge area.

Cultural Diplomacy

In Flanders’ foreign policy, a special Flanders has one cultural centre But the connection is not limited place is reserved for culture. Flanders abroad: ‘de Brakke Grond’ in to language alone. Flanders and has a rich cultural tradition. It is Amsterdam. It is founded on the Netherlands also have close world famous for its fine arts - like the belief that an inspirational historical, cultural, political and the Flemish Primitives - and the environment for artists and socio-economic ties. Cooperation work of leading contemporary art publics is fostered through in the areas of culture, education, artists and art centres. It has a solid collaboration and exchange. science and welfare was embedded reputation that creates opportunities in the Cultural Treaty Flanders- for emerging Flemish artists abroad, Language unites Flanders and the Netherlands in 1995. and is also a valuable tool for Netherlands. With respectively strengthening Flanders’ international 6.5 and 17 million Dutch-speaking position and image. citizens, Dutch is the eighth largest language group in Europe. Involvement in major international The language alliance was formally exhibitions, festivals or publications ratified in 1980 with the Dutch keeps our arts in the spotlight. Language Treaty. Through the export of culture, Cultural diplomacy is not limited Flanders participates in European Flanders positions itself as it has to exporting culture and ideas, and international cultural networks traditionally been known in the however. There is also a focus on through membership in international world: as a trading and maritime cultural diversity and recognition of organisations like EUNIC (European nation, as a crossroads of culture, the added value and effectiveness of Union National Institutes for Culture) heritage and innovation. Innovative cultural cooperation and the cross- and UNESCO. ideas are being exported – for border exchange of ideas, values and example to the Lithuanian city of traditions. Cultural cooperation leads The Flanders UNESCO Trustfund Kaunas, the European Capital of to mutual understanding, recognition (FUT) ensures Flemish support for Culture in 2022, where Designregio and détente. By supporting projects many UNESCO heritage projects. Kortrijk will show small and medium- that enhance intercultural dialogue, Expanding capacity and expertise - sized enterprises how to integrate Flanders aims to protect an open with special regard to intangible design thinking into their business and free society against the dangers cultural heritage like dance, rituals operations. In , the that arise from polarisation, fear and and music - to ensure safeguarding creative industries have been division. Flanders acknowledges the world heritage is the main focus. successfully matched with SMEs power of artists and performers in for more than ten years, resulting transition processes towards more in forty new product and business democracy and self-development. In model innovations. other words, culture draws attention to a number of fundamental values and norms of our foreign policy.

Brussels Philharmonic performing at Carnegie Hall, New York. © Véronique Bossaert Rosas & TG Stan QUARTETT (© Herman Sorgeloos).

29 January 2020 – Minister for Tourism, Zuhal Demir, at the opening of the exhibition “Van Eyck. An Optical Revolution” in MSK, Ghent. © IDAgency/ Frederiek Vande Velde 20 21 Tourism directly employs 6.5% of the workforce, or 250,000 Flemings.

Promoting Flanders as a Tourist Destination

Year on year, more than 30 million In 2017, VISITFLANDERS organised a Flanders is represented in European tourists stay overnight in Flanders large-scale reputation survey. institutions (Tourism Advisory and Brussels. The tourist sector in In it, 13,000 travellers responded to Committee) and organisations like Flanders directly employs 250,000 questions about experiences with the World Tourism Organisation people (6.5% of the workforce). And Flanders, overall satisfaction with (UNWTO) and NecsTour. The latter is studies show that the ‘value-seeking their visit to Flanders and how much a network of more than 30 European tourist’ market segment has yet more time they spent in Flanders. The Regions for sustainable and growth potential. survey also produced a wealth of competitive tourism. insights into how we can maximize Quality and sustainability our strongest tourism assets. Within UNWTO, Flanders represents are paramount in the further the associated members in the development of the sector. VISITFLANDERS also conducted a Executive Council and in the Fortunately, Flanders has a powerful large-scale survey on familiarity Programme and Budget Committee. instrument for this in VISITFLANDERS, with the Flemish masters abroad, In 2020, Flanders will host the the tourism agency charged with mapping out the market potentials, UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy garnering foreign attention for both in neighbouring countries and Tourism. Flanders is also working on Flanders’ many attractions. in more distant markets like Asia and the development of ethical guidelines America. for tourism in conflict-affected areas.

Flanders is a true cycling destination

The Tour of Flanders, first held in 1913, is an annual road cycling race with international standing. Fun fact: every year, thousands of cycling tourists follow the lead of professional cyclists and cycle the Tour of Flanders route themselves.

18 October 2020 - The sprint for victory of the Tour of Flanders 2020. © BELGA Eric Lalmand Flanders aspires to strengthen its position as a world reference for innovative technologies and as a hotbed of digital transformation.

1 October 2020 - Flemish Minister for Economy, Innovation, Work, Social Economy and Agriculture Hilde Crevits attends the presentation of the Volvo XC40 Recharge p8, at the Volvo Car plant in Gent. © BELGA Kurt Desplenter A knowledge region like no other

With few natural resources and companies. The effort will not smart cities, industry 4.0…) and a dense population, Flanders has only focus on Research & the transition to a sustainable nurtured for centuries a strong focus Development but will also widen economic model (circular economy, on education, innovation, science the scope to areas as diverse as bio-economy, water innovation, and knowledge. Over the past mobility, education, social services hydrogen, energy research, etc.). decades, the Government of Flanders and healthcare. Equal attention has rolled out several campaigns to is paid to both the roll-out of In 2020, the city of sharpen this focus and to adapt it digital infrastructure and to the received the European capital of to the everchanging economic and development of human digital skills. Innovation Award from the European international environment. Commission for its excellence in The coalition agreement of 2019, Education plays a key role in this applying innovative governance marked technological innovation effort. It is the firm intention models. as the overarching theme for the of the government to preserve years to come. and strengthen Flanders’ higher MORE ON: education quality and reputation, www.ewi-vlaanderen.be/en Flanders aspires to strengthen its especially as far as innovation position as a world reference for and digital skills are concerned. innovative technologies and as a Climate and sustainability are vital hotbed of digital transformation. benchmarks throughout this work. This involves constant dialogue and In its policies, Flanders puts great cooperation between government, emphasis on digital technologies knowledge institutes, citizens and (artificial intelligence, cybersecurity,

Strategic research centres As a result of close cooperation development in a niche area can between the private sector, become a worldwide success story, universities and the government, as well as a hotbed for growth the so-called triple helix model, locally. IMEC, a spin-off of the four strategic research centres are University of Leuven, was founded now operating in Flanders. IMEC in 1984 as a research centre for (nanotechnology and ICT), VIB nanotechnology and nanoelectronics. (biotechnology), VITO (cleantech) Today, it forms a bridge between and Flanders Make (manufacturing science and industry and turns 23 December 2020 - The Pfizer production plant industry) are world class research mobility, health, industries, cities, in Puurs (Antwerp) where the Covid-19 vaccin of centres. Leuven’s IMEC is a good energy, education, infotainment and Pfizer-BioNTech for the EU market is produced. example of how research and agrofood into smart sectors. © BELGA Jonas Roosens 22 23 Towards a Development circular economy cooperation and

Evolving towards a circular economy innovation will be one of the key challenges in Innovation plays a central role in Flanders UNESCO the decades to come. This means: Flemish development cooperation responding better to the needs Trust Fund work as well. VITO and its South of society with a much smaller African counterpart CSIR started a To help strengthen global scientific ecological footprint. Flanders has demonstration project on battery cooperation within UNESCO a long and successful track-record technologies, aiming at supporting programmes, Flanders created the when it comes to circular economy the introduction of electrical storage Flanders UNESCO Science Trust Fund research and practice. Its research to accelerate the shift towards (FUST). Flemish scientific expertise centres are among the highest renewable energy in South Africa and on water management contributes ranking in Europe, as illustrated offering companies and knowledge to UNESCO projects to make water by their role in the Horizon 2020 organisations the opportunity to management more resilient to the programme. The transition towards learn and collaborate in the field. adverse effects of climate change. a circular economy is an opportunity for Flanders, going well beyond its expertise in recycling and also covering knowhow on circular manufacturing, building and the Hydrogen technology transition to an integrated and Hydrogen plays an important role stored and used later for multiple sustainable food and agricultural in the vision of the Government of applications with no carbon policy. European programmes, such Flanders on the energy transition emissions. The hydrogen community as Food 2030 and Horizon Europe are that takes shape under the European in Flanders is organised in the the framework for this effort. Green Deal. “Waterstof Industrie Cluster”, a strong collaboration of companies, research ‘Circular Flanders’ is a partnership Hydrogen will play an important role institutes and government agencies between government departments, in the future for the decarbonisation and coordinated by WaterstofNet, companies, civil society and the of the Flemish industry for both the Flemish hydrogen knowledge knowledge community and acts as industrial processes and as a centre. They join forces on pilot an incubator for change when it feedstock for sustainable chemical projects, studies and project comes to transitioning to a circular products, and to further decarbonise consortia along the hydrogen value economy. our mobility sector. Large offshore chain to establish a complete windpower farms off the Flemish hydrogen ecosystem in Flanders. MORE ON: coast generate green electricity, www.circularflanders.be which can be used for producing green hydrogen that can be MORE ON: www.waterstofnet.eu/en

Pilot project with a waste collection vehicle running on hydrogen. © Waterstofnet

Flanders has the ambition to become European leader in hydrogen technology. Global Support for a Sustainable Transition

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development of the United Nations has as its main aims: putting an end to extreme poverty, protecting the earth, ensuring inclusive and peaceful societies and pursuing fair prosperity for everyone. The Government of Flanders uses all seventeen Sustainable Development Goals to guide its international operations. To this end, Flanders finances programmes in the areas of agriculture, health care, climate and green jobs in southern Africa, while also supporting civil society organisations and local governments in Flanders. All with the goal of actively supporting change that has an impact at an international level. Flanders has also grown into a valued partner and donor of multilateral and international organisations. An explicit thematic and geographical focus as well as an innovative approach are key aspects of Flemish participation.

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Innovative Donor with Maximum Impact

The Flemish approach was well The new forms of cooperation in In addition, Flanders was appreciated received in the OECD 2018 study which Flanders and other donor by the local partners as a flexible on decentralised development states enter into partnerships donor who has the courage to focus cooperation. In particular, the with multilateral organisations, on innovation, new technologies thematic and geographical focus that national ministries and parastatal and experiments. Flanders is Flanders consistently applies was institutes were also seen as a consciously committed to this role praised. This focus enables a positive evolution. These multi-actor as an innovator and incubator. long-term strategy, a high level of aid partnerships increase the long-term When a pilot project proves to be predictability and the full potential commitment and the effectiveness of successful and larger donors become for expertise building and capacity development cooperation. involved, Flanders looks for scale-up strengthening. opportunities.

Investment in Sustainable Agriculture and Health Care

The partner countries of Flanders’ In fact, the latter is always relevant development cooperation are in situations with deprivation or Malawi, Mozambique and South poverty, for which solving immediate Africa. For each country, a distinctly local challenges is key. In the thematic focus is applied, based on upcoming years, focus in South a considered analysis of the greatest Africa will shift to socio-economic needs and challenges. cooperation.

With respect to Malawi, the focus For example, the Government of is on agriculture and food security. Flanders decided to support a project Cooperation with Mozambique by Tradeline Corporation Limited revolves around the theme of health. in Malawi to promote the market For South Africa the emphasis is on access for small-scale farmers and adaptation to climate change, job farmers’ organisations through creation and the green economy. the development of a favourable The Farmer Warehouse Chilanga, Malawi business climate. A budget of 1.6 million euros was with the small-scale producers on In addition, it attempts to change made available for this. In Malawi, the supply side, as well as the large the attitude towards harmful Tradeline Corporation strives to national or regional buyers on the social norms and practices in a develop a private sector driven demand side. positive way. by a flourishing and competitive agribusiness which contributes to A similar focus on a specific target ICRH-Mozambique is a partner economic growth and the creation of group features in a programme of ICRH-Global, founded at the dignified work in the country. supported by the Government of initiative of the University of Flanders as regards reproductive Ghent, with the support of the Through the provision of technical health in Mozambique. Government of Flanders. Funding assistance and financial support of 1,119,810 euros has been provided and the development of commercial The cooperation between the for the 2018-2022 period. partnerships, Tradeline Corporation Government of Flanders and the is strengthening the capacity of 30 International Centre for Reproductive emerging marketing organisations in Health in Mozambique aims to the focus districts of Kasungu and improve sexual and reproductive Mzimba. At the end of the project, health and rights of adolescents the companies will be able to assume (boys and girls aged between 10 and their market function independently 18). The focus is on reducing teen and will have the skills, tools, pregnancies, unsafe abortions, new network and resources to maintain HIV and STI infections, as well as a sustainable trading relationship gender-related violence.

25 August 2017 – Information stand of ICRH-Mozambique at the high school of Nhongonhane, Mozambique, on sexual and reproductive health. The Fight against Climate Change

Beyond the significant challenge From 2016 until 2020, Flanders it poses to humankind, climate committed 14.5 million euro annually change is a reality that threatens for this objective within a framework to increase inequality in the world. of cooperation with southern Developing countries from the Africa. In the upcoming years, this South are more directly dependent commitment will be continued. The on natural resources to provide for distribution of these funds according livelihoods and incomes. Therefore to organisation, recipient country the human impact of climate change and sector can be consulted online: is at its most outspoken here. www.fdfa.be/en/climate

This has prompted agreements The aim is to enable the partner within the UN to reserve 100 billion countries to adapt to the effects dollars annually for international of climate change and to pursue a climate finance by 2020. low-carbon development path.

Basic principles of Flemish Development Cooperation

STIMULATE ADOPT A SYSTEMATIC FOCUS ON INNOVATION APPROACH COOPERATION 26 27 EVOLUTION OF TOTAL ODA: BREAKDOWN BETWEEN DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION POLICY AND OTHER ODA

€ 70 80% A five-year country programme is being drawn up € 60 70% in cooperation with the partner countries in southern Africa. € 50 60% The country strategy outlines 50% the supported sectors, the € 40 objectives and the available € 30,8 € 28,9 € 24,9 € 27.8 € 30,7 € 34,4 € 23,8 40% budget. To achieve this, € 30 30% Flanders works together with governments, non-governmental € 20 20% partners and multilateral

€ 10 organisations, and increasingly 10% in mixed partnerships also. € 24,5 € 24,9 € 30,6 € 22,0 € 24,0 € 20,8 € 32,7

MILLION € 0 0% 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Expenditure for development cooperation Other ODA % development cooperation policy on total ODA (right axis)

Expenditure qualifies as ODA (Official Development Assistance), when it meets the following criteria: Official - the expenditure comes strictly from government funds. Development - economic and social development is the prime goal. Assistance - it is aid (i.e., it is not a commercial transaction subject to market conditions). The assistance is going to a country (or group of countries) or an international institution on the DAC list. Country Strategy Paper South Africa Development Cooperation bit.ly/2OO6wHC through Multilateral Channels

With respect to development resilience programmes in relation to cooperation, Flanders liaises humanitarian aid. This operational with multilateral organisations support feeds Flemish input at that support and propagate the the policy level of multilateral established Flemish policy priorities. organisations, while at the same For the health sector these are time, the international standards UNAIDS and WHO, for agriculture and and recommendations from the climate change FAO, WFP, ICRAF and multilateral institutions feeds into Country Strategy Paper UNEP and UNDP to support the country programmes. Mozambique (NL) bit.ly/2DTHIwT

Getting the North in Motion

In Flanders, development cooperation This is achieved through education promotes a fair and sustainable and media and by supporting growth and solidarity. innovative projects and volunteer initiatives. Basic principles of Flemish Development Cooperation

Country Strategy Paper Malawi bit.ly/2QPVB20 Human Rights, Peace and Security

For Flanders, human rights constitute not only a legal and ethical commitment towards its own citizens, but also a lodestar for foreign policy. A pro-active, international human rights policy indisputably contributes to Flanders’ long-term interests, since respecting human rights ensures more peace, security and economic and social progress in the world. The First World War played a decisive role in the creation of this awareness.

“There is no peace without development, there is no development without peace and there is neither lasting peace nor sustainable development without respect of human rights and the rule of law.”

Former Deputy Secretary General of the UN Jan Eliasson

28 29 4 human rights priorities in international policy Our ‘Human Rights and Flanders’ (international) Policy’ brochure provides a detailed summary of • RESPECT FOR THE PHYSICAL past achievements and future INTEGRITY OF EVERY PERSON challenges in this area. • COMBATING ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION

Human Rights, • RESPECT FOR THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD

Peace and Security • THE RIGHT TO DECENT WORKING CONDITIONS

Fundamental rights in DOWNLOAD developing countries is also an the brochure here: area of particular focus. bit.ly/2zfqQwI

Human Rights as a Touchstone and an Objective

The Government of Flanders In addition, grants are regularly has regarded human rights as a made to organisations or projects touchstone of foreign policy for a abroad with a clear human rights considerable time. Underpinning focus. For example, the subsidy to Flanders’ international efforts for the Human Rights Office of UNAMI in sustainable development is the Iraqi Kurdistan to strengthen human belief that these efforts are only rights, citizenship, inter- cultural meaningful if they take place and other norms in the educational in a context that acknowledges curriculum of public education. and protects the freedom of the Or in Europe with the grant to the individual. There can be no progress Human Rights Centre “Public Legal without human rights. This ethos Aid” in Belarus. 2014 - “The graves are nice this time of manifests itself in the accession year”: The photo book and the exhibition of Jimmy Kets provide a surprising view of the to several important human rights Flanders supports the Centre for contemporary memorial landscape of treaties, a thorough assessment of Human Rights (CHR) in Pretoria. “The Great War”. arms exports against safety and With this grant, the CHR, an human rights criteria, and the use academic institution for the of human rights as a key criterion promotion of human rights in in the selection of development Africa, organises advanced courses cooperation partner countries. for African participants. The courses are the result of a close collaboration between the CHR and the universities of Antwerp, Ghent and Leuven. 26-30 August 2019 – Flemish participation at the 5th Conference of State Parties of the Arms Trade Treaty, in Geneva, Switzerland.

Strategic Goods Control

Flanders is without doubt a region conflict management and respect Control of the international trade whose history is steeped in armed for human rights. And Flanders uses in strategic goods is entrusted to conflict, so there is a natural these criteria as an instrument of Flanders Chancellery and Foreign predisposition for continuous its responsible export control policy Office and is monitored biannually high vigilance in respect of trade in for combatting illegal arms flows by the Flemish Parliament. firearms and weapon systems. that threaten peace and stability Flemish legislation places a strong in the world. emphasis on ethical criteria such as

Arms Control

In addition to analysing licence strengthening of cooperation and Day-to-day, the Department’s applications for trade in strategic convergence. Examples include experts participate in assistance goods, Flanders Chancellery and the EU Council Working Group on programmes, mainly under the Foreign Office is internationally the export of conventional arms auspices of the European Union, active in the pursuit of globally- and the Conference of States that supporting other countries as they effective arms trade control and are party to the UN Arms Trade set up their own arms trade control increased transparency on the import Treaty. Flanders takes a leading and systems. Flemish experts are active and export of weapons. proactive role in these forums. In in the neighbouring countries of the relation to increased transparency, EU, the Western Balkan countries, The Department represents Flanders not only pro-actively Northern Africa, and beyond. Flanders in various European and participates, but also chairs the international forums dealing with relevant working group under the UN agreements on arms trade control, Arms Trade Treaty. exchange of information, and the

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8 December 2017 – CERF thanks Flanders during the Annual High-level Pledging Flanders is the Conference 2018 in New York, USA. leading subnational donor to the UN When Disaster Hits: Humanitarian Aid Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF). With its annual budget reserves self-reliance of the victims, without for humanitarian aid, Flanders disrupting the rebuilding of local shows solidarity with regions that economy. are affected by natural disasters or conflicts. Flanders has made a Finally, Flanders attaches substantial contribution to CERF, and importance to supporting partner has for some time been the leading countries Malawi and Mozambique subnational donor to this fund. with their disaster avoidance or mitigation measures. The Fund ensures that humanitarian organisations have the necessary After the devastating passage of resources for agile responses at the cyclone Idai in Malawi and onset of crises. Mozambique in 2019, the Government of Flanders immediately made Flanders also provides direct grants 250,000 euros available for to humanitarian organisations emergency aid. The contribution responding to disasters or conflict. was primarily for meeting the most If conditions permit, innovative urgent needs but also for supporting technologies, such as digital cash the climate-related disaster 23 March 2019 – Cyclone Idai made transfers, are used to promote preparedness of the region. landfall near Beira city, Mozambique, on March 14, 2019. © IFRC 33

Flanders’ foreign network

The Government of Flanders has an extensive network of foreign representation offices. Flanders Investment & Trade offices abroad

Flanders Investment & Trade offices abroad in cooperation with Awex and Brussels Hub

VISITFLANDERS offices abroad

Diplomatic representations of Flanders

Representations of Flanders to Multilateral organisations

Country offices

Country offices development cooperation

Flanders’ Cultural House ‘de Brakke Grond’ in Amsterdam

For the latest information on our Representations abroad, visit www.fdfa.be, www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.com and www.visitflanders.com 32 Flanders’ Foreign 2. Policy Actors

Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Office: Shaping and Implementing policy

What?

Since its inception, the Government • Establishing and implementing of Flanders has conducted a foreign European regulations, and policy. Flanders Chancellery and concluding and ratifying Foreign Office is responsible for international treaties. coordinating Flanders’ international and European activities and is Furthermore, the Department therefore in charge of the relations functions as Chancellery for the between Flanders and foreign Government of Flanders and is governments, the European Union responsible for: and international organisations. • Better regulation policy; This includes: • Communication and reputation • International and European trade policy; policy; • Evidence informed policy by • Development cooperation; statistics, strategic analysis and • Controlling the import, export and policy research; transit of dual use products, arms • Long-term strategic vision of and other strategic goods from Flanders. Flanders;

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Why? Where?

As an open society and economy, • monitoring and implementing more • The Department is centrally Flanders balances its commitment than 230 treaties and partnerships: managed in Brussels and has about to the Flemish people, companies trade agreements, Memoranda of 250 staff members. and organisations, with being a Understanding, EU regulations and • Diplomatic representations with committed player in the world, bilateral and multilateral treaties; approximately 45 staff members including the strong influences that • support for numerous initiatives, across Brussels (EU), Berlin, The come with international involvement projects and organisations - from Hague, London, New York, Warsaw, and partners. cultural events and international Vienna, Pretoria, Madrid, Paris, conferences to financing Geneva and Rome. In 2020 a new This interrelatedness serves to development projects and funds for post was opened in Copenhagen. underscore the crucial role played UN agencies; In addition, there are also offices by Flanders Chancellery and • development, implementation, in Prague and Budapest. The Foreign Office. coordination and evaluation of offices in Lilongwe (Malawi) and Flanders’ foreign policy in all Maputo (Mozambique) facilitate its aspects, from cross-border development cooperation. How? cooperation with neighbouring countries to arms trade control. • diplomatic representation at 14 missions for strong cooperation with our international partners; • organising more than 30 foreign missions and 30 domestic receptions per year; For an OVERVIEW of all cooperation agreements, conventions and Memoranda of Understanding per country, please see: bit.ly/2S4UP1n

www.fdfa.be www.vlaanderen.be Facebook: @FlandersDFA Twitter: @Flanders_DFA Flanders Investment & Trade: The Go-To Organisation for International Business

What? Why?

In 2005, the Government of Flanders Internationalisation fuels Flanders’ launched Flanders Investment & economy. To maintain and Trade (FIT) to support Flemish strengthen the region’s global companies in their export activities, competitiveness, internationalisation while also promoting Flanders as an is a must for Flanders-based ideal investment location for foreign companies. businesses. For a robust regional economy, FIT’s mission is: Flanders also requires sustainable • to advise and support Flanders- foreign investment inflows. Foreign based companies with their export companies represent significant and/or international aspirations; added value in this respect. They • to connect Flemish producers and are catalysts for productivity, job foreign buyers; creation, knowledge building and • to provide information, advice technology links between local and support for foreign companies companies and their employees. looking to develop economic All of this has a clear and positive activities in Flanders. impact on the competitiveness of • to promote and represent Flanders local companies as well. as an innovative region with an open and vibrant industrial ecosystem.

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To highlight and recognize this continuous investment and dedication, Flanders’ Minister-President Jan Jambon presented Nike with the 2020 Lifetime Achievement Trophy at FIT’s Foreign Investment Trophy event.

How? FIT has developed an extensive Where? international network of FIT provides four main services: representatives who promote Although headquartered in supporting and advising; organising Flanders as an economic partner and Brussels, FIT maintains closer links events like trade fair participation enhance the region’s reputation as with Flanders-based companies and group business travel; providing a hotbed of knowledge and strongly through its network of 5 provincial financing; and sharing market innovative economy. Flemish offices. Beyond the borders, FIT knowledge. companies and organisations keeps abreast of significant economic looking to conquer new markets market developments around In 2017 alone, FIT organised 124 even faster and more sustainably the world via its network of business trips, attended trade fairs have also benefitted from FIT’s 97 representation offices spread and hosted seminars worldwide. The support. As FIT works to fulfil its across 76 countries. agency also facilitated mandate, it contributes to attracting 4,443 B2B contacts between Flanders- more foreign direct and indirect based and foreign entrepreneurs, investments into Flanders, building and developed 257 trade proposals and evolving a strong network of and 85 market studies. Additionally, local and international contacts as FIT advised 4,443 Flanders-based it does so. companies on exporting, while 2,729 companies received a subsidy to Since 2017, FIT has collaborated boost their exports. FIT proactively with Flanders-based companies, approaches foreign investors through federations and specialists to roundtables, seminars, trade fairs and coordinate the ‘Flanders Accelerates!’ targeted meetings. strategy for internationalisation.

www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.com Facebook: @flandersinvestmentandtrade Twitter: @FlandersTrade and @InvestFlanders LinkedIn: Flanders Investment & Trade and Invest in Flanders Instagram: @InvestFlanders VISITFLANDERS: Promoting Flanders as Top Destination

What?

VISITFLANDERS is a Government of • actively promoting Flanders as Flanders agency for the development a tourist destination to attract and international promotion of more cultural value seekers and Flanders and Brussels as tourist business travellers; destinations. • facilitating full participation in VISITFLANDERS is tasked with: tourism for every Flemish resident; • making tourism in Flanders more • stimulating the further attractive to (international) visitors professionalisation of the sector through targeted investments and to ensure a high-quality offer for support; visitors.

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Why? How? Where?

The tourism sector employs VISITFLANDERS works closely VISITFLANDERS is headquartered 6.5% of the population. with Flanders Chancellery and in Brussels and has an international VISITFLANDERS invests in the Foreign Office and with tourism network of foreign offices spread sustainable development and sector stakeholders, including: around the world. In total, the promotion of Flanders and Brussels • provinces, cities and municipalities agency employs around 200 staff as top tourist destinations to • tourist and non-tourist enterprises members, one quarter of whom are increase profitability, employment • organisations active in the areas of based abroad. The agency is active in and well-being, and to heighten tourism, mobility, heritage, culture some thirty international markets. visitor satisfaction. and education.

www.toerismevlaanderen.be and www.visitflanders.com Facebook: @toerismevla and @visitflanders Twitter: @toerisme_vla and @visitflanders LinkedIn: Toerisme Vlaanderen The Flemish Peace Institute: Peace and Security Monitoring

What?

The Flemish Peace Institute • To inform- The Peace Institute was established in 2004 as a organises and stimulates debate paraparliamentary institution at by organising events, lectures, the Flemish Parliament. Although scientific conferences and policy- funded by the Flemish Parliament, oriented seminars, for Flemish the Flemish Peace Institute works and international audiences. The independently and impartially. Its Institute also provides thorough Board of Directors - whose members and impartial information to reflect parliamentary factions, civil journalists and policy makers. society organisations and academia • To document- The Peace Institute - has advisory and management manages its own collection of responsibilities. The Institute also publications, in collaboration has a Scientific Council, comprised of with the Flemish Parliament’s international experts, that supervises Parliamentary Information Centre. and evaluates the Institute’s research. A catalogue is available online and the collection is accessible to all. The Institute has four tasks: • To study- Policy-oriented research The Institute’s areas of interest is the main task of the Institute. include: arms trade and use; the The Peace Institute publishes its development and production research in Dutch and English and of weapons, as well as export issues background reports and fact control; radicalisation; dealing sheets. with polarisation in the classroom; • To advise- The Peace Institute urban violence; and commemorating supports the Flemish Parliament victims of violence. with recommendations. The Institute formulates evidence-based advice on arms trade, foreign policy, and dealing with conflict and violence in society.

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Why? How? Where?

Striving for a more peaceful society, The Peace Institute conducts The Scientific Secretariat of the both in our country and throughout scientific research on peace issues. Peace Institute is located at the the world, requires a thorough The Institute uses the results of that Flemish Parliament in Brussels. understanding of peace issues. research to support the work of the The Secretariat currently has Policy-oriented research has a Flemish Parliament, and the work of thirteen staff members: a director, critical role to play in this. The aim policy makers at other levels. nine researchers, two part-time is not to prescribe decisions, but office managers and a to inform public debates, to enrich Beyond this work, Institute staff communications manager. conversations with knowledge and are often invited to speak at to formulate measures. The Peace international conferences and the Institute delivers thorough and Institute regularly hosts events impartial analyses with these aims in the Flemish Parliament that in mind. bring together policy makers and researchers from across Europe. The Peace Institute produces information, documentation and also formulates recommendations based on its research. The target audience is not only policy makers, but also civil society organisations, professionals, journalists and the general public.

www.vlaamsvredesinstituut.eu Facebook: @vlaamsvredesinstituut Twitter: @Vredesinstituut LinkedIn: flemishpeaceinstitute Liaison Agency Flanders-Europe (VLEVA): Building Bridges between Europe and Flanders

What?

The Flanders-Europe Liaison Agency • Bridging- VLEVA works to create a is a membership organisation that basis for information exchange and builds bridges between the European advocacy by following and building Union, Flemish (local) governments networks within Flanders, and with and civil society. VLEVA promotes European partners and institutions. more Europe in Flanders and more • Supporting Lobbyists- VLEVA does Flanders in Europe. It was founded in not take positions, but supports 2006 and is structurally subsidised its members and governments in by the Government of Flanders. their lobbying activities, so that the right information reaches the right VLEVA’s four key tasks are: person at the right time. • Monitoring- VLEVA filters, analyses • One-stop Shop- VLEVA is a free and processes European policy guide to questions about European documents and initiatives into contacts and initiatives and ready-to-use information for provides up-to-date information on stakeholders in Flanders. European funding and jobs.

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Why? How? Where?

Europe is increasingly our homeland, VLEVA has over thirty members VLEVA is located in the heart meaning that Flanders must be (governments, interest groups and of the European district of the closely involved in European policy. companies) and its team of 10 . Both the Government of Flanders staff members works closely with and society-at-large play an essential the General Representation of the role in this. Government of Flanders to the EU. The members and the Flemish Flemish civil society organisations authorities determine the content of and local authorities can gain better the VLEVA’s annual agenda. VLEVA’s access to European policy through information sessions and website are VLEVA’s information platform and open to everyone. network. These resources enable VLEVA members and the Flemish authorities to represent their European interests in a timely and informed manner.

www.vleva.eu Facebook: @vlevavzw Twitter: @VLEVA LinkedIn: VLEVA Flemish People in the World: Treasuring the bond with the homeland

What?

Flemish people in the World While VIW is not a government Foundation (VIW) assists Flemish agency, it has been structurally emigrants and expats whether they supported by the Government have international aspirations, or of Flanders since its launch, and are already abroad. With more than can also call on the expertise of a seventy representatives serving their number of reliable partners for its local compatriots across the world, work. it’s a global community, spearheaded by its Brussels secretariat.

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Why? How? Representative VIW and its board members lobby VIW’s vision stems from the Personal Service the authorities and public services conviction that a community is also VIW supports Flemish people with for projects that improve the lives of responsible for its members abroad. international plans by offering Flemish people worldwide, and that The administrative hurdles involved information and contact resources. strengthen the bond with Flanders. in an international move are often Various initiatives, like the VIW VIW is a recognised resource complicated. Whether you are an information day, simplify regarding the needs and aspirations expat, emigrant, recent graduate or the emigration process. The VIW of Flemish expatriates. One of retiree, you can quickly and easily employees advise and refer people VIM’s current initiatives is working to find the information you need for to the appropriate official bodies ensure that there are sufficient your move abroad. when necessary. Thanks to a well- facilities to teach the organised online emigration guide, and Flemish culture, and to expand interested users can quickly find voting rights. the information they need. Where? Global Network The Foundation regularly The Foundation is not only active communicates with tens of in Brussels, but also worldwide. thousands of expats via the website, The widespread network of VIW the electronic newsletter and the representatives means that you VIW magazine. can connect with Flemish people in forty-six different countries.

www.viw.be LinkedIn: Vlamingen in de Wereld Legal 3. Framework

Legal Context and Background

Juxtaposition, not Hierarchy

Flanders enjoys a considerable Considering the substantial shifts This authority extends to the number of powers at the in power that have been ceded to Government of Flanders. Every international level. The Belgian the federated states since 1993, the minister is responsible for domestic, Constitution provides for a impact of this principle cannot be European and for international juxtaposition, rather than overstated. initiatives falling within their a hierarchy, between the federal ministerial remit. The same applies government and the subfederal Flanders acts internationally to departments and agencies. governments. The Constitutional in all areas for which it has Flanders Chancellery and Foreign Amendment of 1993 includes the internal jurisdiction like economy, Office, for example, monitors principle of “in foro interno, in employment, the environment, international policy coherence and foro externo” (art. 167 Belgian agriculture, mobility, public works, is responsible for the coordination Constitution). In this context, it education, culture and health policy. between the various policy areas. means that all governments have Flanders has the constitutional right It is also the first point of contact control over domestic issues as well to conclude internationally-binding for foreign embassies and diplomatic as over foreign issues. treaties in these areas, and can representations. appoint diplomatic representatives abroad.

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Treaty Law in Practice

Flanders concludes treaties with ‘Mixed treaties’ relate to matters for third countries or with international which the federal government and institutions. An overview of the the federated states are both partly hundreds of treaties with Flanders competent. The 1994 Cooperation (with a convenient search filter per Agreement between the federal country and theme) is available government, the communities and on the website of Flanders the regions sets out detailed rules Chancellery and Foreign Office: for the conclusion of mixed treaties. www.fdfa.be/en/treaties-and-mous The Inter-Ministerial Conference on Foreign Affairs (ICBB) is a forum A few examples: for consultation on foreign policy • Treaty of the Council of Europe between the federal level and concerning the protection of the federated states. This body children against sexual exploitation determines the mixed nature of the and sexual abuse; convention, based on advice from • the Scheldt treaties; the Working Group on Mixed Treaties. • Agreement between the and the Netherlands The conclusion of treaties involves regarding the accreditation the following steps: negotiating, of tertiary educational degree signing, questioning of the advisory programmes; councils concerned and Council • Amendment to the Basel of State, obtaining parliamentary Convention on the Control of approval and ratifying and Transboundary Movements of promulgating the treaties. Approval Hazardous Wastes and Their by the Government of Flanders Disposal; is required at every step of this • Treaties on cultural cooperation process. Treaties are adopted into with third countries; Flemish law by means of a • Double taxation treaties. of endorsement in the Flemish Parliament. EU treaties, like Concluding treaties on matters where the EU-Canada [CETA] Free Trade federated states have exclusive Agreement, are also discussed and competence (‘exclusive treaties’) approved in the Flemish Parliament. requires formal disclosure to the federal government. This is done by As a party to a number of human means of a letter from the Flemish rights treaties, Flanders regularly Minister of Foreign Affairs to the reports on compliance with these federal minister of Foreign Affairs. treaties in our domestic policy. Intrafederal Cooperation Agreements Flanders also has full powers at EU However, this EU Cooperation level. The Maastricht Treaty, which Agreement has now become came into force in 1992, empowered outdated. It is in urgent need Flemish ministers to participate of amendments that reflect the in the EU Council of Ministers significant institutional changes in on issues such as the environment, Belgium and in Europe spanning the MORE INFORMATION education, culture or fisheries. last 25 years, in particular since the on the policy framework of In a 1994 Cooperation Agreement, Treaty of Lisbon (2009) and the sixth Flanders Chancellery and Foreign the federal state, the communities Belgian state reform of 2011. Office (regulations, cooperation and the regions confirmed the agreements, strategy notes, the process and authorisations for In addition to the EU Cooperation coalition agreement and policy representation at the EU level. Agreement, there are similar notes) is available at: The Agreement details six categories intrafederal cooperation agreements www.fdfa.be/en/policy-framework for representation at the EU regulating accords between the Council of Ministers: from exclusive federal government and the federal representation (e.g. council federated states. These pertain to configuration for justice and home diplomatic representatives of the affairs) to exclusive representation by federated states, representation the federated states (e.g. education in international organisations, or culture councils), with a number the conduct of proceedings and of gradations in between. attracting foreign investment.

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