Yesterday brought a mix of local news from Ghent and Belgian institutions, alongside developments in sport, technology and international affairs. The day also saw attention on a station stabbing, prison rules for mothers and Eurovision plans for 2027.
The De Wijste Gentenaar awards show has begun at Ghent’s Winter Circus. Following more than 81,000 public votes from over 15,000 Ghent residents and the verdict of a professional jury, the winners in nine categories will be announced tonight. The awards include culture, science and international appeal; the laureates will succeed the winners of the previous edition.
Belgium's Red Dragons face Slovenia in the quarterfinals of the European Volleyball Championship. The Slovenians, sixth in the world rankings, are Belgium's first real test of the tournament. The opening set remains evenly matched as both teams keep pace. The live match began this afternoon at 4 p.m.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says artificial intelligence could help decide which decisions are made on the battlefield as early as next year. He made the statement during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where world leaders are discussing international issues this week. The gathering is considered an important diplomatic moment.
Air traffic was halted for 45 minutes Wednesday evening at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, south of the German capital. A drone had been spotted in the area, airport management and Germany’s federal police confirmed. The suspension temporarily disrupted operations at the airport.
Discord is introducing age checks worldwide for users of its chat service. The platform had previously postponed the measure following criticism of its approach. According to Discord, around 90% of users will not notice, as a computer model automatically assesses most accounts. The checks are now being rolled out globally.
In Brussels, the Matrimoine Days invite people to examine incarceration through a gender lens. This reflection highlights that mothers in prison can still live with their child until the age of three. The initiative thus offers another way to enter a prison and explore the experience of incarceration.
A young man was stabbed at Ghent's Sint-Pieters station on Wednesday afternoon after a fight. He suffered a chest wound and was taken to hospital for treatment.
A country that had announced its boycott of Eurovision 2027 is ultimately expected to participate in the contest. The reversal follows an initial decision not to take part in the event. The country’s expected participation maintains its presence in the competition and will be one of the things to watch ahead of the next edition.
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