Yesterday brought renewed protests across France, Spain and beyond, alongside a close approach between Russian and Western satellites and announced partial curfews. In Belgium, Ghent’s housing pressures and a controversial city purchase drew attention, while the Kikk Festival explored how we perceive our surroundings.
Demonstrations already taking place in France, Spain and Belgium are spreading to other European countries. Large groups also took to the streets in Italy and Portugal last weekend. In Milan, the protests escalated into serious riots and clashes with police. As a result, the actions are taking on an increasingly international character across Europe.
A Russian military satellite has approached to within a few hundred metres of a Western satellite used by the Ukrainian army. This is shown by measurements from satellite expert Marco Langbroek of TU Delft. Langbroek calls the approach concerning and says it could indicate Russian preparations for a first attack on a satellite.
Sébastien Lecornu announces partial curfews starting tonight. He also schedules an “Act II” for next Saturday. The timetable sets out an immediate first phase, followed by a second stage on Saturday, with restrictions described as partial. French authorities must now implement the measures according to this timetable.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for 30 days and fined 250 euros by the Portuguese Football Federation. The governing body announced the sanctions on Monday. Despite the suspension, the striker will not miss any matches with Portugal. The disciplinary measure will therefore have no impact on his international fixtures.
Marie-Hélène Ska of the CSC and Jean-François Tamellini of the FGTB condemn the disorder seen at recent union demonstrations. The two leaders stress that unions organize their mobilizations openly, without concealing their faces. They nevertheless believe the political world also bears some responsibility for the violence.
Each month, Ghent’s public welfare council reviews cases of welfare recipients living long-term in an Airbnb or other holiday accommodation. The city links this emergency measure to the housing crisis, saying it helps people avoid homelessness or ongoing dependence on friends and family. Ghent stresses that holiday accommodation is not a sustainable long-term housing solution for this group.
The Kikk Festival, dedicated to digital and creative cultures, returns to Namur from October 22 to 25. The event explores how to make what surrounds us perceptible. Over four days, it will offer a program focused on digital practices and contemporary creation in Belgium’s Walloon capital.
The city of Ghent is planning a framework agreement worth nearly €460,000 for wine, sparkling wine and fruit juice. The four-year contract will also cover the OCMW, as the city implements savings. Vlaams Belang says the amount is hard to justify. CD&V is calling for more opportunities for Ghent winemakers, but alderwoman Hafsa El-Bazioui (Groen) defends the purchase.
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