The municipal elections are now behind us, and it is time to take stock. The analysis of the participation of non-Belgian residents of Etterbeek in the elections raises concerns. We must acknowledge that our municipality has slightly regressed in this area.

In 2024, only 17% of eligible non-Belgian residents registered to vote, a figure slightly lower than in 2018 (17.8%). The registration of EU citizens (17.9%) was significantly higher than that of non-EU citizens (10.2%). Other municipalities facing similar challenges are achieving better results. Etterbeek ranks behind nine other Brussels municipalities in terms of registration rates, such as Watermael-Boitsfort (25.7%) or Saint-Gilles (22.5%).

During the campaign, our opposition councilor, Pieterjan Vanden Boer, spoke with many non-Belgian residents. Many of them wanted to vote but were not informed or were informed too late about the procedures to register.

The low participation of non-Belgians affects overall voter turnout. In Etterbeek, for the first time, less than half of the voters, 48.2%, cast a valid vote (non-blank). This figure is lower than the Brussels average and marks a decline compared to 2018 (50.8%) and 2014 (53.7%). This trend is concerning and requires in-depth analysis.

Faced with these findings, Pieterjan Vanden Boer, Ecolo-Groen councilor, asked several questions to the College of Aldermen of Etterbeek during the Municipal Council of February 17, 2025. The aim was to find out:

1. How does the college evaluate the efforts made in recent years to increase the registration rate of non-Belgians?
2. Are there explanations for the lower registration rates compared to other municipalities?
3. Does the college consider adopting the best practices of other Brussels municipalities, such as Saint-Gilles or Watermael-Boitsfort, where the registration rate is higher?
4. What other initiatives does the college plan to increase the registration rate by 2030?
5. Does the college plan to raise awareness among new non-Belgian residents about their right to vote throughout the legislature, for example by informing them proactively during other administrative procedures?

The College's responses are very disappointing. Although it shares the observation of participation below the regional average, it has not committed to strengthening efforts. We regret this. We will continue to stimulate reflection within the Municipal Council. We believe that there are good practices in the Brussels region from which Etterbeek can draw inspiration.

Do not hesitate to share your ideas with us to make our local democracy more inclusive !