In what ways is Brussels more class and/or more grim than Dublin?
In terms of class-ness, I’d have to say the internationalism. I can walk down the street and be as likely to hear any language in the world as English, French or Dutch. I regularly meet people from all over the world and share ideas and experiences with them. I’m regularly challenged in my world-view, and either become better at defending it or reconsidering it.
As for grim-ness, I would have to say the amount of tension. The Belgians dislike that the EU immigrant community that drives up rents, doesn’t pay Belgian taxes and doesn’t integrate very well. There is tension between the other immigrant communities and the Belgians. Then there’s tension between these communities and the EU-community and it often manifests in sexism and sexual violence. Add to this the hostility towards EU policy right now and the regular demonstrations, and you know what? Sometimes it’s a little stressful to live here.
What would you bring back from each place?
From Brussels, I would bring back the spirit of innovation and optimism for change that exists in the international parts of the city. I regularly meet human rights advocates, civic innovators, technology geeks, and policy nerds and they all want to change their particular corner of the world no matter how the odds are stacked against them.
There are unique aspects of the Irish psyche I feel Europe could benefit from – a nice turn of phrase, a healthy scepticism, a refreshing self-depreciation and a resilience in the face of terrible circumstance. Also, I never really appreciated how hilarious we are until I left.
As someone who has a particular interest in politics, has it been difficult to be away from the country during a time of massive political importance?
It’s tough as I’ve essentially been told that because I came to Brussels, exercising my freedom of movement granted to me under European treaties, I have had my vote removed. If I want to vote I have to pay a couple hundred quid, and after 18 months I can’t vote at all. It’s even worse for people who have had no choice but to move for economic circumstance. I’m thankful I can afford to fly back until my 18 months are up. It’s increasingly frustrating to watch politicians at home bumbling about the topic of an emigrant vote and seeing nothing concrete done.
Photograph: John Samonte
