Belgium is considered to be one of Europe’s main recruiting hubs and has witnessed the highest number of foreign fighters per capita departing for Syria. Women without Borders (WwB) travelled to Belgium to interview Belgian Muslim youth living in the most affected neighbourhoods in and around Brussels. These young adult men and women share their perspectives and experiences on what it is like to live in Belgium at a time of heightened fear, Islamophobia, and polarisation. WwB interviewed these young people before and after the attacks on the Brussels airport and metro. The participant’s insights and personal experiences of being perceived as ‘the other’ highlight social complexities and dynamics. The film ‘BRAVE Brussels’ features this youth’s perseverance and resilience, thoughtful reflections, and sense of citizenship by sharing alternatives to the common extremist narrative.

Related Content

Films

“Die Österreicher und die anderen Ausländer”

Events | WwB

Open House Talks | Negotiating for the Future of Afghanistan

Publications

MotherSchools Indonesia | Impact Report 2023-2024

Events | External

My Story – Our Capital. Women raise awareness of violence and mobilise against stigma and silence

Events | External

Sisters Against Violent Extremism Presentation

Publications

The Link Between Singular Identities, Domestic Violence, and Violent Extremism

Publications

MotherSchools India | Impact Report 2021-2023

Events | External

Voices of Resilience: The Women of Afghanistan and the Global Fight for Equality