Brussels & EU

In the post-war period, Brussels has gradually taken on its role as the 'capital' of Europe. It is the headquarters of the European Community and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, as well as gaining a reputation as the foremost European center of international business. In 1957, Belgium formed, with the Netherlands and Luxembourg, the Benelux Union.

The European Union (EU) in Brussels is comprised of 27 European countries. On any given day there are over 23,000 people working in the offices of the EU. The infrastructure of the EU is divided into 3 big institutions: the European council, the European commission and the European parliament.

For individual visitors, the European Parliament offers audio-guided visits and, during part-sessions, the chance to attend a parliamentary sitting. Visitors must be at least 14 years old. Information visits are organized for groups composed of a minimum of 20 people and a maximum of 45.