Brussels and International Associations Towards a Community Goal

Brussels keeps on with its commitment to the association community empowerment thanks to the various activities taking place all year round in the destination. With novelties among the venues, a new EU agenda, new organisations in the city, and a new community centre for international associations, Brussels keeps the pace and provides all elements for working, connecting, and moving forward.

The year 2024 was not only the year of the European elections, but also a year of significant economic, technological and geopolitical developments, with Brussels - also thanks to the Belgian EU Council Presidency - positioned itself as a key arena for discussions and activities by international associations.
 

The Association Place at the centre of initiatives

November 2024 marks the first-year anniversary of The Association Place, a central hub for the international and European association community, strategically located in the heart of the European Quarter. An area that shall also be on the spotlight with important changes in the coming years due to a new urban planning and changes in the residential and office space design.

Initiated by the visit.brussels Convention and Association Bureau, The Association Place, has been holding all year long various information sessions about Brussels and fostering lively debates and knowledge exchange during the monthly interactive masterclass style meetings within the Association Connect cycle of events. Ranging from EU affairs, communications to association management, the gatherings gave opportunities for participants to expand their network in Brussels and gain insights from experts in their domains.

For newcomers, dedicated Welcome Days took place in September, providing the opportunity to learn more about Brussels, the associations’ panorama, organising meetings in the city or learning more about daily life aspects for association employees.

The venue serves also as a networking platform and as an information centre, and its modern facilities provide a collaborative work environment designed to accommodate a wide range of activities—from workshops and seminars to networking events and exhibitions.
 

A Community place of Associations

The diversity of associations that have been present at The Association Place reflects the multicultural fabric of Brussels itself. Whether they focus on humanitarian issues, environmental advocacy, or industry-specific interests, these organisations share a commitment to making a positive impact. During the year, diverse initiatives were held by associations for its members, among which was the release of the Association Leader’s Toolkit by the European Society of Associations Executives.
 

New activities and new places

The changes in the city are bringing a refreshing trend to Brussels as an attractive setting for events and other activities. A revamped website with a venue planner, an interactive Let’s Meet in Brussels guide allows to smoothly plan events and spot the most interesting places for a knowledge exchange, networking or incentive gatherings in Europe’s capital.

With a new thematic year for Brussels related to architecture approaching in 2025, it might be also an opportunity to enjoy the jewels of Art Deco and holding discussions on all topics among the association community in a destination that in itself is an association place.
 

The Association Place
Avenue d’Auderghem 63,
1040 Brüssel, Belgien
associations@visit.brussels