Brussels Battle: National Conservatism Conference Confronts Shutdown Over Safety
April 16, 2024The National Conservatism conference in Brussels, organized by the Edmund Burke Foundation and supported by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, encountered disruption due to public safety concerns raised by city authorities.
Despite a ban, figures like Nigel Farage addressed the conference which highlighted anti-migrant sentiment and criticism of the EU.
Organizers struggled with venue issues, casting uncertainty on the continuation of the event, particularly its proceedings on Wednesday.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo deemed the shutdown attempt 'unacceptable', while local officials maintained the stance was for public safety.
The conflict is intensifying political debate, with accusations of suppressing dissenting voices ahead of European Parliament elections, and conservatives framing it as a matter of free speech rights.
The outcome of the conference and the broader implications for political discourse in Europe remain in a state of flux.
Summary based on 24 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Apr 16, 2024
National Conservatism Conference: Police told to shut down right-wing Brussels eventThe New York Times • Apr 16, 2024
Mayor Orders Police to Interrupt Conservative Conference in BrusselsThe Guardian • Apr 16, 2024
Belgian mayor orders halt to NatCon conference attended by BravermanThe Guardian • Apr 16, 2024
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