Pilot Trainings on Afrophobia, Colonisation and Decolonisation

events Programme

CEJI – A Jewish Contribution for an Inclusive Europe organised three pilot trainings on Afrophobia, colonisation, and decolonisation in Brussels in May and June 2026. Two sessions were held in French and one in English. The programme brought together memory activists, educators, teachers, social workers, and representatives of civil society organisations from Belgium and other European countries.

The training programme focused on developing a deeper understanding of Afrophobia and anti-Black racism, the colonial history of Belgium and Europe, and contemporary processes of decolonisation. Participants explored the origins of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination while learning practical strategies for recognising and responding to exclusion at both the individual and institutional levels.

The trainings were based on CEJI's participatory and experiential learning methodology. Participants engaged in activities exploring identity and self-awareness, cultural diversity, stereotypes and discrimination, as well as group discussions, role-playing exercises, and case studies. This approach combined historical reflection with practical skills that participants could apply in their educational, professional, and community work.

The English-language training also included a decolonial guided tour of the AfricaMuseum led by Femïya asbl. Rather than focusing on the museum's collections, the tour critically examined the narratives and messages underpinning Belgium's colonial project and explored how these continue to shape contemporary understandings of history and society.

Each training included evaluation before, during, and after the programme. Participants highly valued the interactive methodology, the supportive learning environment, and the opportunity to combine historical knowledge with practical tools for addressing racism and discrimination. The most common recommendation was to extend the duration of the trainings to allow more time for exploring the historical and structural dimensions of Afrophobia and for additional practical exercises and discussion.

The training series strengthened the competences of professionals and activists working in education, community engagement, and social inclusion while creating opportunities for participants from different backgrounds to exchange experiences and good practices. The programme demonstrated how intercultural education can contribute to promoting equality, challenging discrimination, and fostering more inclusive communities.

📸Stéphanie Lecesne Patey CEJI