Et si vous invitiez vos voisins !

CONVIVIALITY EVENT What if you invited your neighbours! "Immeubles en fête": that is the title of the operation which will take place on 27 May as part of European Neighbours' Day. An operation launched in Paris in 1999, in which two million French people took part in 2002, and which this year crosses the borders of France. Its slogan: "No quarter for indifference". Its objective: "To strengthen local ties, develop a sense of belonging to the same neighbourhood, create solidarity between neighbours, mobilise against isolation and exclusion…" "Faced with the anonymity that often reigns in our cities, this event is a simple response, open to everyone," explains Carl De Moncharline, who initiated the import of the concept into our capital. Over to you! Be careful: residents will be the true players of these gatherings. There is no question of taking them by the hand — it is up to them to devise the activity that will develop conviviality and solidarity in the building or the neighbourhood. What activity? Almost anything is possible: having a drink, organising a children's snack, playing cards, planting flowers, dancing… "In Woluwe, a concierge has committed to preparing the aperitif for the tenants," continues Carl de Moncharline. "In Watermael-Boitsfort, several 'garage barbecues' are already planned; in Ixelles, part of a street will be closed to traffic…" These are of course only a few examples among others. These small gatherings between neighbours will, it is hoped, lead to a real dynamic. For conviviality gives rise to mutual help between neighbours, and small favours can give rise to local solidarity. MICHEL DECLERCQ NOTE Info: www.immeublesenfete.be