Belga empowers the next generation of EU journalists

Bridging Theory and Practice

As one participant shared in our aftermovie: "This training is really the bridge between theory and journalism, because European journalism covers quite broad and complex affairs. So learning to see how journalists work and how they cover all these European affairs..."

And that's exactly what we set out to do – transform complex EU policy into compelling stories that resonate with audiences.

Why EU Journalism Matters

The statistics speak for themselves: 72% of Belgians know and feel that Europe has an impact on their daily lives. Yet many don't feel fully informed about European politics. Whether it's federal budget deficits or Flemish environmental policy, it all connects back to Europe. As one of our expert speakers emphasized, journalists need to know where legislation and regulations ultimately come from.

A Focus on Quality and Truth

This year's edition placed special emphasis on fact-checking and combating disinformation. As Jesús Carmona, Director for Media at the European Parliament, highlighted: "We have detected that in Europe we are suffering attacks from outside of the European Union and we need to train journalists in this kind of fact-checking element – for letting them know that they do not have to believe everything that comes to Europe."

Before explaining what the EU does, we must first ensure that the sources we communicate are truthful. Only then can we navigate the complexity of European institutions and explain their vital role in citizens' lives.

Three Days of Learning

The programme brought together European Politics expert, Professor Van Hecke (KU Leuven) and leading voices in European journalism, from Belga, De Tijd, La Libre Belgique and Le Soir to VRT NWS, RTBF and the European NewsRoom. Participants learned about:

• Translating EU policy news for diverse audiences

• Understanding institutional structures and decision-making processes

• Quality journalism and fact-checking techniques

• The new political landscape following the 2024 elections

• Media's role in strengthening democracy

The training culminated at the European Parliament with a meet-and-greet session with Belgian MEPs, followed by the handover of certificates by Jesús Carmona and networking drinks organized by the EP Liaison Office.

Building a More Informed Europe

As participants gain practical insights – knowing whom to contact, where to find information, and how to work more efficiently – they're better equipped to make European politics accessible and democratic. Because democracy thrives when people understand what happens at all levels of political power.

This is just Module 1. The journey continues in March 2026 when a selection of participants reunite for Module 2, organized by the European Parliament in Brussels or Strasbourg.

Learn more about our EU Training Programme: www.eutraining.belga.be

The training for young journalists is a European Parliament programme managed by Belga News Agency.