10th Commemoration of the Brussels Terrorist Attacks

About

Memory, National Solidarity and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism

House of Representatives, Brussels

In March 2026, Belgium marks ten years since the terrorist attacks that profoundly affected Brussels, the victims and their families, and society as a whole. A decade later, the imperative to preserve collective memory, honour the victims, and reaffirm our democratic values remains essential.

On Friday, 20 March 2026, the Brussels International Centre for Research (BIC-RHR), with the full support of Mr. Koen Metsu and the Belgian Federal Parliament, will organise a commemorative event at the House of Representatives in Brussels. Holding this commemoration within a central democratic institution underscores the vital role of parliamentary engagement in addressing radicalisation, safeguarding fundamental freedoms, and supporting victims of terrorism.

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Purpose of the Commemoration

Under the theme “Memory, National Solidarity and Democratic Resilience in the Face of Terrorism,” the event will serve both as a tribute and as a space for reflection, dialogue, and transmission of democratic values—particularly to younger generations.

The commemoration aims to:

Honour the victims of the Brussels terrorist attacks and pay tribute to their families
Preserve collective memory and acknowledge the enduring societal impact of terrorism
Emphasise national unity and solidarity beyond linguistic, cultural, and philosophical divides
Highlight the importance of institutional and parliamentary action in preventing radicalisation and protecting fundamental freedoms
Convey a strong message of democratic vigilance, resilience, and peace

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Programme Overview

Address: Place de la Nation 1008, Bruxelles

10:30 – Registration

11:00 – Official Opening

Institutional opening remarks
Tribute to the victims
Testimonies and personal reflections
Reflections on resilience and democratic values

13:30 – Closing of the formal programme

13:30–14:30 – Networking Reception

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Confirmed Speakers

H.E. Ambassador Bill White, Ambassador of the United States – Opening Remarks
Mr. Koen Metsu, Member of the Federal Parliament – Tribute to the Victims
Ms. Karen Northshield, victim of the Zaventem attacks (22 March 2016)
Mr. Aristide Melissas, victim of the terrorist attacks
Mr. Julien De Wit, co-author of Ontwapend – Speaker and Moderator
Two additional victims directly linked to the Zaventem attacks (TBC)

The event will gather approximately 85 participants, including victims’ families, representatives of victims’ associations, institutional actors, civil society representatives, experts, witnesses, and members of the public. International partners and diplomatic representatives will also be in attendance.

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Networking Reception

Following the official programme, from 13:30 to 14:30, participants will be invited to join a reception with drinks, sandwiches, and networking.

This informal gathering will provide an opportunity for exchange, dialogue, and continued reflection among attendees in a spirit of solidarity and shared commitment.

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