The city of Leuven (Louvain) in Flemish Brabant, Flanders, Belgium received a silver award at the fifth European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards, held in Brussels on Tuesday 21 April 2026. The awards, organised by the European Commission, recognise cities, municipalities, and regions that excel in promoting inclusion, diversity, and combating discrimination.
Leuven was honoured in the category for local authorities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, finishing second behind Józsefváros, a district of Budapest, while Leiden (Leyden) in the Netherlands claimed bronze. The jury highlighted Leuven’s initiatives such as ‘Leuven without Racism‘ and its action plan against discrimination in housing, employment, and education.
The city was also praised for its focus on accurate representation, multilingualism, and accessibility, as well as its support for diverse communities, including older people and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lotte Ramakers, Alderwoman for Diversity and Equal Opportunities, described the award as a “crowning achievement” for the city’s ongoing efforts. She emphasised that the recognition belongs to residents, organisations, and city staff who work daily to ensure everyone feels welcome.
Leuven also reached the finals in a separate category for inclusive labour markets, thanks to its Leuven Learning Ecosystem, which provides accessible learning opportunities through creative and informal environments.
The city council stressed that the award is not an endpoint but a milestone, reaffirming Leuven’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society. Leuven hopes its efforts will inspire other European cities and municipalities.
Józsefváros takes gold for pioneering inclusion and diversity
Józsefváros, a district of Budapest, won the gold award in the same category. Tessza Udvarhelyi, Deputy Mayor for Social Policy and Community Relations, accepted the award, noting that Józsefváros has become a model for solidarity and diversity in Hungary.
She highlighted the district’s initiatives, including inclusive kindergartens, internships for Roma communities, scholarships, and support for victims of domestic violence. Udvarhelyi expressed optimism for the future, stating that Józsefváros will continue to build a society where everyone can live with dignity.
Leiden recognised for inclusive labour market efforts
Leiden, in the Netherlands, secured the bronze award. The city was commended for its work in connecting job seekers with employers and supporting residents in developing skills for the labour market. Marlous Schreve, former programme manager for Leiden Inclusief, called the award a “wonderful recognition” of the city’s collaborative efforts in promoting inclusion.
The European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards, now in their fifth year, celebrate municipalities that treat diversity as a source of development and innovation. This year’s ceremony brought together mayors, officials, and experts from across Europe to honour those leading the way in building inclusive communities.