When it passed a law allowing marriage "between persons of the same sex" in 2003, Belgium became only the second country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage. Unlike in France, the move did not spark a controversial debate or encounter staunch opposition. Today, same sex marriage is generally well-accepted by the public and political class in Belgium.
Hijab-wearing Mahinur Ozdemir, the youngest deputy to serve in the Belgian parliament, attracts her fair share of attention for her attire and views. The 27 year-old is of Turkish origin.
The debate over the burqa, or Islamic full-body veil, has crossed Frence’s border. In Belgium, it is already banned in the Flemish-speaking region, and Brussels and French-speaking Wallonia could follow suit.
EU leaders in Brussels are discussing a climate package, an economic stimulus plan and the controversial Lisbon Treaty. Follow the events at the last European Council summit of the French presidency.
Kattalin LANDABURU 
