Europeanization and socio-spatial polarization in Brussels

Abstract

The Europeanization of Brussels-that is, the clustering of major EU institutions and a vast array of EU-related transnational protagonists in the city over the second half of the twentieth century-has thoroughly transformed the role of the city in global terms. At the same time, it has triggered significant change in the urban environment. This paper analyzes the interaction of the Europeanization process with existing socio-spatial and political configurations in the city. It shows how Europeanization makes a significant contribution to the increasing socio-spatial polarization in Brussels, notably through labor market restructuring and office and housing market dynamics. This outcome is linked to a lack of strategic and democratically negotiated forms of governance of the EU and of the transnational presence in Brussels.