Out now: The Bulletin's spring edition is your essential guide to living and working in Belgium

As Belgium and Europe brace themselves for a new round of elections this May, The Bulletin's spring edition focuses on some of the key battlegrounds in our feature on what’s at stake.

There’s also a clear groundswell of citizen action on many issues, including mass protests by youngsters against climate change. There’s no shortage of action in Belgium and we look at some of the grass-roots campaigns in Brussels that are already making a difference.

Meanwhile, challenging stereotypes is an ongoing crusade for the whole of society. In Brussels, people living in the commune of Molenbeek face constant prejudice. We hear from some about what life is really like in this too-maligned quarter.

Elsewhere, we tackle what needs to be done in the war against plastic, how it’s never too late to learn new skills and why there’s a growing appreciation for bread made the artisan way. And, as ever, we bring you a round-up of timely family and lifestyle stories that’ll put you in the mood for spring.

Pick up a copy of The Bulletin's spring issue at newsstands around the country. We hope you enjoy the read!

What's inside

• My Brussels: Sven Gatz on why his city is often misunderstood
• How citizen activity can make a real difference to everyday life
• Local life in Molenbeek: the community speaks out
• What’s at stake in the European Parliament elections this May?
• It’s back to school for restless workers looking to spice up their careers
• Why consumers need to do their bit in the war on plastic
• Master the art of speaking Belgian in our guide to the country’s very own vocab
• Meet the performance poets with a growing reputation
• Belgium’s animal lovers are choosing to adopt their pets rather than buy
• Easter treats: chocolate eggs for all tastes and budgets
• Artisan bakeries are on the rise in response to the hunger for real bread
• Ideas to get the family out and about, from zip wires to zoos
• Brussels’ favourite running event celebrates its 40th edition