Over Leuven
Leuven welcomes students and researchers from over 170 countries, a scale of diversity that shapes the city’s character. For the 105,000 people who call it home, the Diversity and Equal Opportunities Department has turned that cosmopolitan reality into a structural commitment both recognising diversity and addressing barriers to participation.
Some of that work is evidence-based. The Leuven Without Racism Project uses field tests to detect discrimination in the rental market, exposing barriers faced by people of diverse ethnic backgrounds and persons with disabilities at an early stage. Over 1,000 residents have been trained as active bystanders and equipped to respond to discrimination in public settings. A reception centre for newcomers brings all support services under one roof and a local reporting centre provides assistance to those experiencing discrimination.
Visibility is also addressed through policy. Leuven’s rainbow policy, shaped by LGBTIQ+ experts, supports representation across city life. An Accessibility Advisory Board composed of persons with disabilities reviews policies, contributing to continuous improvement.
Finalist video