society
From Harlotry To Sex Work: How The Low Countries Deal With Prostitution
Today, prostitution has been legalised in the Netherlands and decriminalised in Belgium, but the normalisation of ‘sex for money’ is far from a reality.
Renovated Brussels Bourse Turns To Booze
After years of renovation, Brussels' former Stock Exchange building has been transformed into a grand venue for lovers of architecture, archaeology and beer.
The Naked Truth
Sex In The Cinema? Censorship In The Netherlands, Deleted Scenes In Belgium
The Netherlands was long considered more progressive in cinema than Belgium. Surprisingly enough, film censorship was more robust in the Netherlands than in Belgium.
The Ambiguous View Of Sexuality In The Low Countries
Since 1945 The Netherlands and Belgium have often been frontrunners on the world stage when it comes to sexuality. But a certain sense of unease has always lingered and seems to be growing these days.
Tour of Flanders
Rotterdam’s River Taxis Create Waves
Do you want to explore Rotterdam in a fast and furious way? Board a water taxi.
How Much Colour Can The Flemish Art World Tolerate?
Superdiversity and interculturality have become inevitable facts. An articulate generation with diverse backgrounds is demanding its place. How is the debate conducted in the Flemish cultural sector, and in particular in the performing arts?
The L-Spot
Our Top Society Stories of the Year
Join us in bidding goodbye to 2023 with some of the most surprising stories we have published this year on societal matters in Flanders and the Netherlands.
How Belgium and the Netherlands Sell Themselves
Although these neighbouring countries have regularly joined forces in recent years, there are still notable differences in culture and style.
The DNA of the Netherlands
Dutch Windows – Nothing to Hide Here
When you walk through a Dutch city late at night, the chances are you’ll be able to see inside the front rooms.
Harvest of the University Press (autumn 2023)
Our selection of recent university press publications in English on the Low Countries.
Death is Living Culture at Funeral Museum Tot Zover
Funeral Museum Tot Zover in Amsterdam knows how to surprise with exhibitions that are informative, thought-provoking, touch a sensitive chord and make you laugh.
In the Shadow of Holland’s Prosperity
Behind the image of the well-organized Netherlands, a distressing reality is hidden, writer Jonah Falke discovered.
The Benelux Train Connects Amsterdam and Brussels
The yellow and blue Benelux trains symbolise a long love affair between the two cities.
Cross-Border Cooperation in Education: Still More Barriers Than Benefits
The wishful, border-breaking collaboration between the Belgian and Dutch education sectors is struggling to get off the ground due to legal obstacles and governmental oversight that isn’t always so benevolent.
‘Strive for Quality Education, but Beware of Unrealistic Expectations'
From systemic teacher shortages to declining language skills, education in Flanders and the Netherlands faces similar problems. So, what can they learn from each other?
Why Arts Education in Flanders Is Gaining Momentum
Teachers and students see that their schools are keeping up with the times. ‘Parents are seeing art education as a good choice.’
Climb Every Dutch Mountain
Hiking enthusiasts in Europe’s flattest country have created the Dutch Mountain Trail.
How the Dutch Like to Be Beside the Seaside
With its 500 kilometres of coast, the Netherlands is suitable for every holiday season. Thanks to the many beach bars, you do not have to compromise on comfort.
Plenty of Weapons but No War Rhetoric in National Military Museum
The impressive museum, located at a former air base, is not a showcase for the Ministry of Defence but offers a balanced cultural-historical presentation.
The Unique Leuven Male Ritual Listed by Unesco
Men from Leuven with the same year of birth unite at 40 to prepare for their 50th anniversary.