Gent’s city debt crisis is taking a unique turn during the Gentse Feesten, where jenevers are being sold to help reduce the staggering financial burden. Since 2025-07-23 00:49:00, this grassroots initiative has raised hundreds of euros daily, contributing directly to the city’s funds.
- Gentse Feesten sell jenevers to raise funds
- Proceeds help reduce Gent's billion-euro debt
- Edmond Cocquyt Junior leads fundraising effort
- Minister Van Peteghem joins jenever sales
- Half euro per jenever goes to city
- Debt symbolically decreases with daily donations
With Gent’s municipal debt exceeding one billion euros, every small effort counts. The daily donations from jenever sales are a creative way to engage locals and visitors alike in supporting the city’s financial recovery. But can these small steps really make a difference in such a massive debt?
The initiative even attracted federal Budget Minister Vincent Van Peteghem, who joined the jenever sales on Tuesday, adding political weight to this local effort. This raises the question: how effective can community-driven fundraising be in easing Gent’s fiscal woes?
While the daily contributions may seem modest, the campaign highlights community spirit and political support in addressing Gent’s financial challenges. Could such grassroots efforts inspire other Belgian cities facing budget shortfalls?
- Each jenever sold donates €0.50 to Gent’s city treasury.
- The symbolic debt counter dropped below €1 billion thanks to ongoing sales.
- Federal Budget Minister Van Peteghem’s involvement underscores national awareness.
As the Gentse Feesten continue, the city’s residents and visitors are encouraged to join the effort. Will this spirited campaign prompt more creative solutions for Belgium’s municipal debts? Only time will tell.
