The European jury has announced its decision for the European Capital of Culture 2030, and Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 (MB2030) was not selected.
A source for the Molenbeek organisers said,
“While this moment may feel like a pause in our adventure, it is not an ending. What we have built together over these years is too strong, too alive, and too necessary to stop here.”
“We applaud the titleholder, and we will contribute with all our generosity to their further development into the European Capital of Culture 2030.”
“From the very beginning, MB2030 was never only about a title, it was about what we could build together, right here, right now.
“And together we have achieved something extraordinary: thousands of neighbours, artists, families, teachers, shopkeepers, students, social and cultural workers, and artistic partners, shaped a vision for Molenbeek and for Brussels that is open, generous, and deeply European.
“We thank each and every one of you who contributed your time, creativity, and voice. You have shown the world a different story of Molenbeek: one of solidarity, resilience, and possibility.”
The source added, “Our guiding value, Sadaka, meaning generosity without expecting anything in return, remains the heart of this journey.
“It is alive in the bonds we’ve created, the projects we’ve launched, and the everyday acts of care and creativity that will continue to shape our city and our continent.
“The energy and connections sparked by MB2030 do not end today.
“The projects that began through this process (bringing nature back into our city, opening public spaces for creativity, empowering young people, and making art part of everyday life) will keep growing. The partnerships we have built across Europe remain strong, and our shared work towards a fairer, more open future continues.”
“This moment is not about closing a chapter, but about carrying our collective energy forward. Together, we have laid the foundation for a brighter cultural future in Molenbeek, in Brussels, and in the many communities across Europe facing similar questions of how to live together, care for one another, and create spaces of belonging.
“Molenbeek for Brussels 2030 is not just a project. It is a movement, rooted in generosity, carried by culture, and alive in the people who made it possible.”
