Code of conduct
Interpersonal relations
At first, Flemish people appear to be modest and introvert. Initially, most of them do not make contact easily with people they do not know. From the moment they get to know you, however, they become very sociable. Never hesitate to start a conversation, the Flemish are helpful and friendly, especially if you try to talk their language. If people hear that you do not speak Dutch that well they will switch to French, English, German or another language to help you.
Flemish people are mostly open-minded. Nevertheless, people may be offended when young people are violent, make a lot of noise, behave dangerously,... On buses, trains and trams people talk softly and it is polite for young people to give their seat to the elderly, handicapped or pregnant. Leaving rubbish or littering is not done!
No discrimination allowed
As in many other parts of the world, the traditional image of women has changed. Women have achieved equal rights and have the same professional status as men. They are emancipated, self-confident and do not allow themselves to be dominated. Opinions of both men and women are equally respected and accepted.
Since the 1960s, both men and women can take initiative when it comes to getting to know someone. But take care - even serious flirting might not turn into a major love affair. If one of the parties concerned does not want to take it any further (yet), the other party will have to accept this.
Since the 1990s, homosexuals openly express their sexual preference and the topic is no longer taboo in Belgium and Flanders. Gay and lesbian people are allowed to marry and to adopt children. Two men or two women walking hand in hand and kissing in the street is considered as normal, just as if it were a heterosexual couple. Violence and discrimination against men, women, gay, lesbian and transgender people is a serious criminal offence which will be prosecuted.
In Flanders, several cultures coexist peacefully. The Turkish, African, Moroccan and Asian minorities are considered to be a cultural aspect that enriches the Flemish culture. Mutual respect is very important in a multicultural society. Racism, violence and discrimination against migrants is a crime that will be prosecuted.
Smoking
Belgium has gradually implemented a widespread smoking ban. You are not allowed to smoke
- in train stations and on public transportation, in airports and on a plane;
- in all public buildings, ranging from shopping malls to hair salons;
- in the workplace;
- in all restaurants.
It is also illegal to sell smoking accessories to children under the age of 16.
Basic advice
- Although simple politeness is always expected, Belgian people are generally relaxed. They like to hear “please” and “thank you” repeatedly! People here are very friendly but quite reserved especially talking to strangers.
- It
is not polite to be late. It is important to be on time for
appointments, so if you find you are going to be late for a meeting or
if you cannot keep the appointment, contact the person you are going to meet beforehand.
- If you are invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to take a small gift (for example: wine, chocolates or flowers), or you could invite them to your home in return. If you have any special religious or dietary requirements, it is considered good manners to tell your hosts about them in advance.
- When you are in a bank or other shop, you are expected to queue – stand in line and wait your turn. People can get very angry if you “jump the queue”.
- People often just get together in a pub/café in the afternoons, or in a restaurant in town in the evenings. Pubs are popular social meeting places and sell
a range of soft drinks as well as alcohol. Usually each person pays their own bill, unless otherwise agreed.
- You may wish to give a tip (about 10%) to a taxi driver or in a restaurant. If you have a meal in a restaurant, check if a service charge is included before leaving a tip.
More information
- How to act like a local in Ghent...
- A short introduction to Belgium
