GAIA asks US ambassador to cancel planned fireworks in Brussels

Brussels, 12 May 2026 – GAIA has formally asked the United States Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, to cancel the fireworks display announced as part of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, due to take place in Brussels’ Cinquantenaire Park.

For GAIA, staging such a display is incomprehensible at a time when a bill to ban the sale, transport and possession of fireworks by private individuals is currently being debated in the Federal Parliament. GAIA also points out that the use of fireworks is already severely restricted in the Brussels-Capital Region because of the nuisance and dangers they pose.

“At a time when Parliament is debating a nationwide ban on fireworks, it would be completely inconsistent to organise a pyrotechnic event of this scale in Brussels,” says Michel Vandenbosch, President of GAIA. “We are calling on Ambassador White to act responsibly and choose a modern, respectful celebration - one that does not cause animal suffering or create risks for public safety.”

Every year, fireworks cause tragedies for both animals and people. In 2025, GAIA recorded at least 81 pets harmed by fireworks in Belgium, including 33 deaths. And this figure does not even include the impact on wild animals.

Public opposition to fireworks continues to grow. According to an IPSOS survey conducted for GAIA, 67% of Belgians support a ban on the sale and possession of fireworks by private individuals.

Finally, GAIA notes that many Belgian municipalities have already limited or banned fireworks, while more than eight out of ten animal welfare alderpersons say they support a nationwide ban.