Scottish Government events in Brussels: 2021 to 2025
- Last updated
- 9 March 2026 - see all updates
A record of the events held at Scotland House Brussels between 2021 and 2025.
2025
Burns Supper at the UK residence: 5 February 2025
Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, Angus Robertson hosted a Burns Supper at the British Residence in Brussels as part of his official visit programme, bringing together partners and contacts from across the EU community. Guests enjoyed performances celebrating the works of Robert Burns by artists from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, marking an evening dedicated to Scottish poetry, music and cultural exchange.
Breakfast with Scottish stakeholders at the UK residence: 6 February 2025
Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson hosted a breakfast meeting with Scottish stakeholders based in Brussels, providing an opportunity to discuss Scotland’s engagement with the European Union and priorities for cooperation across culture, renewable energy and trade. The gathering allowed participants to exchange views and strengthen connections within Scotland’s Brussels network.
Burns Night concert in Scotland House Brussels: 6 February 2025
Scotland House Brussels held a Burns Night concert hosted by Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson, featuring performances by musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. The event welcomed members of the Brussels community to celebrate Scotland’s national poet through music and song, highlighting Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
Universities Scotland delegation in Scotland House Brussels: 10-11 February 2025
Scotland House Brussels welcomed the first Universities Scotland delegation to Brussels for two days of engagements with representatives of business, the European Commission and EU Member States, as well as partner university alliances. The visit explored new opportunities for collaboration and examined the future policy landscape at a pivotal moment in the EU cycle, concluding with a reception with partners, the UK Mission to the EU and other devolved governments at Ducale.
Voices from the Horizon Event at Scotland House Brussels: 24 March 2025
The Scottish Government EU Office and Scotland Europa co-hosted a discussion event at Scotland House Brussels showcasing the research project “Voices from the Horizon”. Researchers Dr Małgorzata Mitka from the University of St Andrews and Rachel Dohain-Lesueur from Glasgow Caledonian University presented findings on third-country experiences of association to the Horizon Europe programme to an audience of scientific counsellors and research stakeholders, fostering dialogue on international collaboration in European research and innovation.
Five Films for Freedom Screening at Scotland House Brussels: 26 March 2025
The Scottish Government EU Office, in partnership with the UK Mission to the EU and the British Council, hosted a screening event at Scotland House Brussels as part of the 2025 Five Films for Freedom festival. The event showcased three short films celebrating global LGBTQIA+ stories, bringing together members of the Brussels community to highlight the power of storytelling in promoting understanding, inclusion and equality.
BRAG Networking event at Scotland House Brussels: 27 March 2025
Scotland House Brussels hosted a networking reception for the Brussels Representatives on Agriculture (BRAG), bringing together agrifood attaches from third countries, EU Member States, and EU institutions. The event provided an opportunity to build and maintain key contacts across Scotland’s priority policy areas of agrifood, trade and investment, and EU engagement. Guests enjoyed Scottish-inspired catering, including whisky, wine, sparkling wine, cheeseboards and snacks, while the reception offered a platform to showcase Scottish products and policies in an informal setting.
Women in Whisky event at Scotland House Brussels: 14 May 2025
The Scottish Government EU Office, in partnership with UK Mission to the European Union, hosted the event “Women in Whisky: the right blend” at Scotland House Brussels, celebrating the contribution of women across the whisky industry. Led by industry expert Siobhan Sellers, the tasting showcased Scottish whiskies while highlighting the achievements of women shaping the sector and provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the importance of diversity, inclusion and empowerment across industries.
EU-UK roundtable discussions at Scotland House Brussels: 2 June 2025
The Scottish Government EU Office hosted a series of roundtable discussions at Scotland House Brussels in partnership with the Independent Commission on UK-EU Relations and Aston University, exploring the question “What next for the UK-EU relationship?”. Bringing together around 80 participants across three sessions, discussions covered developments following the EU-UK Summit in May and future cooperation on trade, energy and mobility, providing a platform for experts and stakeholders to exchange views on strengthening future UK-EU relations.
Summer reception at Scotland House Brussels: 5 June 2025
Scotland House Brussels hosted its annual Summer Reception in partnership with VisitScotland, welcoming guests from across the Brussels policy and diplomatic community to focus on sustainable tourism in Scotland. The reception showcased innovative tourism initiatives from across the country, highlighting projects promoting responsible travel and reinforcing Scotland’s position as a leading destination for sustainable tourism while providing an opportunity for networking and exchange among stakeholders.
Sustainable Finance conference at Scotland House Brussels: 11 June 2025
Scotland House Brussels hosted the conference “Sustainable Finance, Skills & Green Competitiveness”, bringing together policymakers, researchers and financial sector experts to discuss sustainable finance policy, climate and nature investment, and the skills needed to support Europe’s green transition. Jointly organised by the European Commission Joint Research Centre, the University of Edinburgh Business School and International Sustainable Finance Centre alongside the Scottish Government, the event featured keynote contributions and panel discussions on EU sustainable finance developments, supply chain resilience and green competitiveness, concluding with a networking reception and whisky tasting for participants.
Under2 Coalition ministerial meeting at Scotland House Brussels: 12 June 2025
Scotland House Brussels hosted the annual ministerial meeting of the Under2 Coalition, chaired by Minister for Climate Action and Energy, Gillian Martin during her visit to Brussels for engagements with EU and bilateral partners. Discussions brought together European climate and energy ministers to advance cooperation on global climate action and net-zero ambitions, while the visit also included meetings at the European Parliament, including an exchange with MEP Terry Reintke on strengthening Scotland–EU collaboration on climate and energy transition.
Scotland in Space event at Scotland House Brussels: 2 July 2025
The Scottish Government EU Office and Scotland Europa jointly hosted a networking event at Scotland House Brussels highlighting opportunities in Scotland’s rapidly growing space sector. Featuring an address by the Scottish Government’s International Trade and Investment Envoy for Space, Daniel Smith, the event explored prospects for collaboration between Scotland and European partners, with contributions from representatives of European Space Agency and NEREUS, bringing together stakeholders from EU institutions, regional governments and the private sector to discuss future cooperation in space technologies and investment. Daniel also had a series of meetings with NATO and others as part of his wider visit to Brussels.
Roundtable with Scottish Government Directors at Scotland House Brussels: 4 September 2025
Scotland House Brussels welcomed Shona Riach, Director-General for Strategy and External Affairs, and Kenneth Hogg, Director for Culture and External Affairs, for a programme of engagements with EU institutions and Brussels-based stakeholders. Their visit included meetings at the European Parliament, European Commission and Council of the European Union, and concluded with a roundtable lunch event at Scotland House focused on strengthening EU-UK relations and highlighting Scotland’s potential role in fostering collaboration across trade, energy and youth mobility.
Minority languages event at Wales House: 24 September 2025
Scotland House Brussels, in partnership with Wales in Europe and six other European minority language organisations (Channel Islands Brussels Office, HM Government of Gibraltar - Representation to the EU, Isle of Man Government, The Office of the Northern Ireland Executive in Brussels, Norwegian Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Regione Puglia), hosted a panel and reception event focused on language regeneration. The programme featured roundtable discussions at Scotland House and panel sessions at Wales House, with contributions on Gaelic and Scots from Calum Alex Macmillan, Chief Executive of Fèisean nan Gàidheal, and EU Director Martin Johnson, exploring the role of creative arts, lifelong learning and community-led initiatives in reviving minority languages across Europe.
Scottish Chamber Orchestra concert in Brussels: 25 September 2025
Scotland House Brussels welcomed Gavin Reid LVO, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, ahead of the orchestra’s European tour stop in Brussels. Martin Johnson, Scottish Government EU Director, hosted discussions on Scotland’s support for the arts and touring artists, before attending the evening concert at Bozar, which featured Beethoven’s Creatures of Prometheus, Sir James MacMillan’s percussion concerto Veni, Veni Emmanuel performed by Edinburgh-born percussionist Colin Currie, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7. The event celebrated Scottish artistic excellence, European cultural exchange, and the unifying power of music.
Food and drink event at Scotland House Brussels: 2 October 2025
Scotland House Brussels organised a food and drink event hosted by Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands. The tasting, led by Siobhan Sellers, paired Scottish whiskies with locally inspired canapés and brought together representatives from agriculture, trade, and rural sectors, offering an opportunity to explore Scotland’s food and drink excellence while highlighting the country’s whisky heritage.
Ladies in Agriculture Afternoon Tea at the British Residence: 3 October 2025
Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon hosted a reception at the British Residence celebrating the contribution of women in the agriculture sector, which concluded her visit. The event showcased Scotland’s food and drink products while providing a forum for the promotion of diversity in the industry.
Universities Scotland UK-EU relations reception in Ducale: 13 October 2025
As part of the Universities Scotland’s second visit to Brussels, a small reception was held at Ducale to support continued dialogue on UK–EU relations in higher education. The event brought together sector representative bodies, including the Secretaries General of ten European organisations, as well as the Rector of KU Leuven, providing an opportunity to strengthen academic and institutional partnerships across Europe.
Universities Scotland alumni reception at Scotland House Brussels: 14 October 2025
As part of a visit by a delegation from Universities Scotland, Scotland House Brussels hosted a reception for alumni, providing an opportunity to celebrate Scotland’s higher education community, reaffirm European engagement, and host around 90 alumni of Scottish universities, who have gone on to build successful careers in Brussels.
European Movement in Scotland – Brussels Group Launch: 16 October 2025
Scotland House provided the venue for the launch event for the European Movement in Scotland’s (EMIS) Brussels Group. EMIS is a non-partisan group, bringing together all those who share the belief in a Europe united for peace, prosperity and freedom. The Group intend to highlight Scotland’s deep rooted European identity and alignment. EU Director Martin Johnson spoke at the event, alongside others including Ian Forrester KC (now Sir Ian), EMIS President David Martin, Joanna Goodburn, Irene Oldfather and Colin Brown.
Remembrance Day: 9 November 2025
EU Director Martin Johnson attended the Service of Remembrance at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Oud Heverlee, Belgium. Alongside the UK Ambassador to Belgium, Permanent Representative to NATO, representatives of Welsh Government, Northern Ireland Executive and others, he laid a wreath on behalf of the Scottish Government, paying tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
Cohesion Policy event at Scotland House Brussels: 18 November 2025
Scotland House Brussels, in partnership with Scottish Enterprise and the University of Strathclyde European Policies Research Centre, hosted an event reflecting on “50 Years of Structural Funds in Scotland”, marking the publication of the EPRC report “What has Cohesion Policy done for us?”. The discussion highlighted Scotland’s pioneering legacy in implementing EU Structural Funds, shared lessons for future regional and cross-border collaboration and celebrated the impact of Cohesion Policy on Scotland’s economy, competitiveness, sustainability, and innovation over the past five decades.
St Andrew’s Day reception at Scotland House Brussels: 19 November 2025
Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs, Angela Constance hosted the Scottish Government EU Office’s annual St Andrew’s Day reception at Scotland House Brussels, bringing together European partners to celebrate Scottish culture, food and drink, and ongoing cooperation throughout the year. The evening also featured a live concert performance by musicians from Live Music Now, adding a vibrant musical celebration to mark Scotland’s national day.
PPA breakfast briefing with MEP Nina Carberry at the European Parliament: 20 November 2025
A breakfast briefing at the European Parliament was hosted by MEP Nina Carberry in partnership with the Scottish Government EU Office, Welsh Government Brussels Office and The Office of the Northern Ireland Executive in Brussels, bringing together MEPs and representatives of the UK’s devolved governments ahead of the EU–UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly. The event provided an opportunity to exchange views on shared priorities and future cooperation between the EU and the UK in the context of devolution, while strengthening dialogue with parliamentary partners.
Caledonian Society St Andrews Ball: 29 November 2025
Scottish Government Brussels office partnered with the Caledonian Society for its St Andrews Ball at the Steigenberger Wiltcher’s Hotel in Brussels. EU Director Martin Johnson gave a welcome speech to around 180 guests for an evening of Scottish food and dancing. The event also raised fund for a Brussels charity – the Community Help Service (CHS).
JHA Scotch whisky tasting at Scotland House Brussels: 4 December 2025
Scotland House Brussels hosted a whisky tasting led by the team’s Head of Justice and Home Affairs. The event brought together colleagues and stakeholders for a networking reception, providing an opportunity to showcase Scottish whisky while fostering connections across the justice and home affairs community.
Edinburgh Royal Choral Union and Brussels Choral Society Concert in Brussels: 7 December 2025
Scottish Government Brussels was one of the partners for a joint concert at Bozar, in Brussels, with the Edinburgh Royal Choral Union (ERCU) and Brussels Choral Society (BCS). Martin Johnson, Scottish Government EU Director, attended the concert and met with the Presidents of ERCU (Ms Moira Burke), and ERCU (Ms Levke King). The event celebrated cultural links between Scotland and Belgium, Scottish artistic excellence, and the unifying power of music. There will be a further joint concert at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh in March 2026.
2024
Burns Supper at the UK Residence: 23 January 2024
Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson hosted a Burns Supper in the UK Residence at Rue Ducale with a number of key contacts from across the EU institutions, member states and third countries. Our guests enjoyed an evening of Scottish poetry and culture, from the The Association of Exiled Scots.
Burns Night Concert in Scotland House Brussels: 24 January 2024
The event was hosted by Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson and featured performances by the Association of Exiled Scots, who presented a wide range of Robert Burns’ repertoire, including both songs and poems. Guests and colleagues from across the Brussels community joined us for the occasion.
Association Femmes d’Europe’s concert in Brussels: 1 February 2024
The Scottish Government EU Office, in collaboration with the Irish Embassy in Belgium, supported the Association Femmes d’Europe’s concert ‘A Musical Heritage from Scotland & Ireland’. The event, held at the Protestant Church of Brussels, featured performances by Muriel Johnstone and Ian Robertson, who explored the rich musical traditions and shared heritage of Scotland and Ireland.
LGBTQIA+ film screening at Scotland House Brussels: 13 March 2024
The Scottish Government EU Office, in partnership with the British Council and the UK Mission to the EU, hosted a screening of Five Films for Freedom, part of the BFI Flare LGBTQIA+ Film Festival. The event took place at Scotland House Brussels and featured three of the five shortlisted short films.
This year marked the 10th anniversary of the festival, which celebrates global LGBTQIA+ stories by showcasing five short films from the Philippines, India, Spain, the UK, and the USA.
Scotland House Brussels welcomed Billy Kay: 9 April 2024
Scottish Government EU Director Martin Johnson hosted a cultural engagement at Scotland House Brussels, where he welcomed writer and broadcaster Billy Kay.
During the discussion, Billy spoke about the history and evolution of the Scots language and shared insights into his book Born in Kyle, offering a personal perspective on Scotland’s cultural and linguistic identity.
MEP Danuta Hübner in Scotland House Brussels for an engaging hybrid Q&A session: 3 May 2024
Scotland House hosted MEP Danuta Hübner for an engaging hybrid Q&A session, bringing together colleagues from the Scottish Government and Scotland Europa. The discussion centred on Professor Hübner's expert insights regarding European Parliament elections, Scotland-EU relations, and strategies for enhancing youth participation in public life.
Summer Reception at Scotland House Brussels: 28 May 2024
Scotland House Brussels hosted its annual Summer Reception, celebrating Scotland’s arts sector. The event featured an innovative exhibition highlighting festivals from across the country and was complemented by a captivating spoken word performance by Ruth Kirkpatrick from TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland).
Scotland House Brussels and the Representation of the Free State of Bavaria to the European Union co-hosted an event celebrating the opening match of the European Men’s football Championship between Germany and Scotland: 17 June 2024
The event showcased the power of sports diplomacy in fostering international connections, as both nations came together in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect.
Scotland House Brussels hosted the annual Ministerial meeting of the Under2Coalition: 19 June 2024
Scotland House Brussels hosted the annual Ministerial meeting of the Under2Coalition in Brussels, a global network of governments committed to achieving net zero emissions. During the gathering, Climate Action Minister Gillian Martin addressed members of the European Climate Group, emphasising the need for the new EU leadership to uphold the European Green Deal and to go further, together in tackling climate change.
The Swiss Mission to the EU and The Scottish Government EU Office on a cultural and trade event in Brussels: 27 June 2024
The Swiss Mission to the EU and The Scottish Government EU Office collaborated on a trade event in Brussels, themed ‘Swiss Cheese Meets Scotch Whisky’. This gathering brought together trade representatives from both nations, offering an opportunity to promote open trade relations while celebrating the distinctive culinary traditions of Switzerland and Scotland.
Event on Minority Languages in Scotland House Brussels: 25 September 2024
Scotland House Brussels hosted a cultural event exploring how digitisation is being used to protect and regenerate minority languages in Europe. The event brought together representatives from MGALBA and seven other partner organisations from a diversity of European constituencies.
Scotland House Brussels hosted Vlaams InnovatieNetwerk Brussels during EU Regions Week: 9 October 2024
During EU Regions Week, Scotland House Brussels hosted Vlaams Innovatie Netwerk Brussels for a panel discussion on regional innovation in hydrogen economy transition. The panel highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and bridging the skills gap in the hydrogen industry.
Financial Services Whisky Tasting Event: 15 October 2024
In partnership with the City of London, we hosted a Financial Services networking event that offered guests the opportunity to connect informally while enjoying a curated Scotch whisky tasting.
Sustainable Finances Roundtable: 16 October 2024
A breakfast roundtable on sustainable finance and the green transition, featuring Dr Theodor Cojoianu, Associate Professor in Sustainable Finance at the University of Edinburgh and a Member of the European Commission's Platform on Sustainable Finance.
The discussion focused on the next steps needed to unlock and track green investment, with particular attention to the importance of consistent rules and systems across borders.
Food and Drink Event in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink: 24 October 2024
Scotland House Brussels, in partnership with Scotland Food & Drink, organised a food and drink reception to showcase Scotland's high-quality produce and its significant impact on both the local economy and international trade. The event was hosted by Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon.
Remembrance Day: 10 November 2024
On 10 November 2024, EU Director Martin Johnson attended the Service of Remembrance at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Heverlee, Belgium. He laid a wreath on behalf of the Scottish Government, paying tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
St Andrew’s Day Concert at Scotland House Brussels: 19 November 2024
To mark the start of the winter festival season, Scotland House Brussels hosted a special celebration for St Andrew’s Day on 19 November 2024. Scottish musicians Isla Ratcliff and Evie Waddell delivered a captivating concert that beautifully showcased Scotland’s rich musical traditions and vibrant linguistic heritage. Their performance brought together Gaelic, Scots, and English in a powerful expression of Scotland’s cultural diversity.
The event was hosted by Dr Alasdair Allan MSP and welcomed guests from across Europe to mark Scotland’s national day through music, language, and connection.
2023
Burns Supper at the UK Residence at Rue Ducale, with musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the National Piping Centre: 24 January 2023
We celebrated Burns Night Supper with a number of key contacts from across the EU institutions, member states and third countries. The evening was a celebration of the enduring spirit and legacy of our national bard. Our guests enjoyed an evening of Scottish poetry and culture, and performances from Anna Reid & George Chlad from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Calum Kaye from the National Piping Centre.
Burns Night Concert: 25 January 2023
Scotland House Brussels celebrated Burns Night with live traditional music performances from Anna Reid & George Chlad from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Calum Kaye from the National Piping Centre. The event saw guests and colleagues from across the Brussels community join us.
Panel discussion led by Chris Stark on Net-Zero ambitions: 14 February 2023
Scotland House Brussels hosted a panel discussion involving the UK Mission to the EU and Welsh Government Office in Brussels led by the Chief Executive of the UK’s Climate Change Committee, Chris Stark. The discussion focussed on the opportunities and challenges for achieving Net Zero ambitions, including with EU partners.
UK Innovation and Tech Show with Professor Brian Cox: 15 March 2023
The UK Innovation and Tech Show at the Square in Brussels, which was headlined by Professor Brian Cox, had an audience of 3-400 policymakers. The show included a main panel event organised by the Scottish Government on “Innovation and Interdisciplinarity: Disruptive Technologies and the Creative Industries”. The panel session included speakers from Codebase (CEO Steven Drost), Creative Informatics/ Edinburgh University (Prof Melissa Terras), Touchlab (VP Laura Garcia-Caberol) and Nvidia (Government Affairs lead, Bea Longworth) and was moderated by Science Business (Simon Pickard). Furthermore, the Scottish Government and Scotland Europa, had a Scottish exhibition space which included co-exhibitors from Creative Informatics, Touchlab Limited, Freeflow Technologies and Jeni Allison.
Scotland’s Economic and Social Forum: 29 March 2023
Scotland House Brussels hosted an evening reception alongside the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (now Prosper), learning about how businesses in Scotland can be purposeful and make a positive impact on the economy, wellbeing, society, and sustainability.
Under2Coalition at Scotland House Brussels to discuss journey to Net Zero: 21 April 2023
Scotland House Brussels hosted a meeting for European members of the Under2Coalition, a coalition of subnational governments that aims to achieve greenhouse gases emissions mitigation, to discuss key shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration on the journey to Net Zero.
VisitScotland event on Delivering Climate Action in Tourism: 17 May 2023
VisitScotland came to Scotland House Brussels for an event on Delivering Climate Action in Tourism. Lord John Thurso, Chairman of Visit Scotland, Lyn Donnelly, Senior Responsible Tourism Manager & Lee McRonald, International Partnerships Manager, spoke about delivering climate action in Tourism. Representatives from VisitFlanders attended the event.
Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson hosted a round table discussion on the links between hosting major sporting events and economic development: 1 June 2023
Scotland House hosted a round table discussion, which included representatives from the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Championships, Visit Flanders, the EU Commission, the German Government, and the French Government. They discussed the economic benefits of hosting major sporting events, and how one can seek to ensure that these benefits can accrue locally.
Summer Reception highlighting the UCI World Cycling Championships: 1 June 2023
Scotland House Brussels held its annual summer reception hosted by External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson MSP. We were joined by a wide range of diplomatic and other colleagues in Brussels. The reception highlighted the forthcoming 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships in Scotland, and the Chief Executive Ms Trudy Lindblade joined us for it. The event was also supported by the Scottish Whisky Association, and CEO Mark Kent attended.
Transport Decarbonisation Event: 6 June 2023
Scotland House Brussels, together with UK Transport in Europe (UKTiE) hosted an event on transport decarbonisation & the important role hydrogen will play in achieving this. Hydrogen Vehicle Systems, Transport Scotland , and the UK Civil Aviation Authority were present to showcase Scotland’s work, ambition & desire to work with EU partners.
Greening Sports Event with the Association of Cities and Regions for sustainable Resource management: 8 June 2023
Scotland House Brussels hosted the Association of Cities and Regions for sustainable Resource management (ACR) event on greening sports. Ian Gulland, Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland and president of ACR plus gave keynote speech. There was a panel discussion on how to create more circular e-communities through sport and tourism with Raphaelle Moeremans, Head of Sustainability at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise SCRL, Katrina Reuter, Development Coordinator at the European Volleyball Confederation, Jonas Orset, Founder of Green Cycling Nordic Norway, Warren Mcintyre from Zero Waste Scotland, Laska Nenova, Managing Director at BG Be Active and Bruno Van Pottelsberghe, Dean of Solvay Business School.
Under2Coalition meeting with Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan: 22 June 2023
Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan MSP visited Brussels during European Sustainability Week to chair the European Ministerial meeting of the Under2Coalition. The Under2Coalition is the largest global network of subnational governments driving ambition and action in the face of the global climate emergency. The meeting was attended by a range of Ministers from U2Coalition governments.
Scottish-themed breakfast event at the UK Residence at Rue Ducale: 5 July 2023
We marked the presentation of the Honours of Scotland to His Majesty King Charles and Her Majesty Queen Camilla this morning with a Scottish-themed breakfast for VIP guests, and a presentation on the history of the monarchy in Scotland over the last 1,000 years. The breakfast was co-hosted by Scottish Government EU Director Martin Johnson and UK Ambassador to Belgium, Martin Shearman.
Adam Smith’s Tercentenary Event: 21 September 2023
Scotland House Brussels hosted the University of Glasgow for an event on net zero, wellbeing and equalities to celebrate Adam Smith’s tercentenary. During a panel discussion Professor Kezia Dugdale, Director at the John Smith Centre, Professor Graeme Roy, Dean of External Engagement and Deputy Head of College at the University of Glasgow, Dr Fabian Zuleeg, Chief Executive at European Policy Centre, Elizabeth Dirth, Managing Director at ZOE and Rachel Lancry Beaumont, Head of Unit at the Committee of the Regions discussed what makes a wealthy nation.
TRANSPOESIE 2023: 28 September 2023
Scottish poet Imogen Stirling represented Scotland at the annual Transpoesie festival, presenting her poetry at the Italian Institute and the Pianofabriek in Brussels.
Documentary screening with the Mission of Ukraine to the EU: 7 November 2023
Scotland House Brussels, in cooperation with the Mission of Ukraine to the EU, hosted a documentary screening and photo exhibition. The evening included film, and images showcasing the Ukrainian ‘Culture vs War’ arts initiative. The event was co-hosted by Scottish Government EU Director Martin Johnson and Ukrainian Deputy Ambassador to the EU Iryna Yefremova.
Panel discussion led by ZeroWasteScotland on circularity and recycling: 16 November 2023
ZeroWasteScotland organised a panel discussion at Scotland House on packaging waste with Aline Maigret, Head of Policy at Zero Waste Scotland, Alison McKinnie Policy Analyst at Zero Waste Scotland, Stuart Chidley, Co-founder of Beauty Kitchen, and Sarah Risch, Policy Advisor at the Public Waste Agency of Flanders (OVAM). The panel focussed on circularity, recycling, and reuse as complimentary forces to support Scotland’s transition to a circular economy.
St Andrew’s Day Concert with Energy Minister Gillian Martin: 21 November 2023
The Scottish Government EU Office celebrated St Andrew’s Day at Scotland House Brussels with an evening of Scottish culture and music by the fantastic artists Mairi McGillivray and Katie Allen, in collaboration with Live Music Now. The event was hosted by Scotland’s Energy Minister Gillian Martin MSP.
St Andrew’s Day Lecture with keynote speaker Isabel Davis: 30 November 2023
To celebrate St Andrew’s Day, Scotland House Brussels hosted a lecture held by Screen Scotland’s Executive Director, Isabel Davis. She spoke about Screen Scotland’s ambitions and the extraordinary recent growth of Scotland’s film and TV sectors.
2022
Burns Night Celebrations: January 2022
Scotland House Brussels’ annual Burns Night events were cancelled due to COVID-19 measures in Belgium.
Spring Reception: 27 April 2022
Scotland House welcomed a wide range of friends and colleagues for its annual Spring Reception – the first since the COVID-19 pandemic. The theme around this year’s event was ‘Scotland’s Year of Stories’, with performances from storyteller and participatory artist, Shona Cowie.
EU Vocational Skills Week: The Road to Green Skills. Session discussing upskilling and reskilling for a just transition to net zero: 17 May 2022
The panel discussion hosted online gave speakers a platform to speak of the challenges that actors across the EU are facing relating to the green transition. The discussion provided strategic insight and practical examples on how to rise to the skills challenge and deliver on the Green Deal. Panelists included Laura Rayner (European Policy Centre), Felix Rohn (EU Social), Fabienne Goyeneche (Michelin), Yoann Dhome (Hall 32) and Jim Brown (Michelin Scotland Innovation Partnership).
Minister Lorna Slater roundtable discussion on the Edinburgh Declaration on biodiversity: 1 June 2022
Scotland House Brussels welcomed participants in-person and online including representatives from the European Committee of the Regions and International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) Europe to discuss how different actors and combine their efforts to prevent biodiversity loss. The discussion involved the Scottish Government’s Edinburgh Declaration for nature and how the Scottish Government is mobilising sub-state, regional, local governments and cities to come together to tackle nature loss ahead of COP15 and the new global biodiversity framework.
Ukraine Fundraising event at North-Rhine Westphalia office, featuring Mariana Sadowska, Jarry Singla: Eastern Flowers: 16 June 2022
Scottish Government EU Office jointly hosted a fundraising event in support of Ukraine with the Representation of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia to the EU, Welsh Government EU Office, and the Northern Ireland Executive Office. The event involved a concert showcasing music from Jarry Singles EASTERN FLOWERS and Mariana Sadovska, and a fund-raising auction run by staff from Scotland House. The concert reaffirmed the continued support from Scotland to the people of Ukraine and raised around €3000 for Ukrainian related causes.
TRANSPOESIE 2022: 27 September 2022
Scottish Government EU Office celebrated Scotland’s Year of Books sharing poetry and culture with talented poets from Lithuania, Slovenia, Wales, the Basque Country, Northern Ireland & Scotland. Iona Lee represented Scotland at the Italian Cultural Institute.
NICE Network at Scotland House Brussels: 28 September 2022
Scotland House Brussels hosted a meeting of the Net-Zero Industrial Cluster Exchange (NICE) Network – a new Michelin & Scottish Government funded European partnership to share knowledge and experience on regional industrial decarbonisations strategies.
St Andrew’s Day Lecture with Umza Khan, Vice-Principal Economic Development and Innovation, University of Glasgow: 29 November 2022
Europe Minister Neil Gray MSP hosted the St. Andrews lecture and welcomed guest speaker Umza Khan, Vice-Principal Economic Development and Innovation at the University of Glasgow, who gave a powerful talk on sense of belonging and the wellbeing economy. Europe Minister Gray gave the opening remarks, speaking about European cooperation and friendship, at this annual Scotland Europa event.
St Andrew’s Day Concert with Europe Minister Neil Gray and artists from Live Music Now: 30 November 2022
The Scottish Government EU Office celebrated St Andrew’s Day with a Concert with artists Megan MacDonald, Calum McIlroy and Ciar Milne from Live Music Now. Europe Minister Neil Gray MSP hosted the evening and welcomed a wide range of guests from across the Brussels community, including: Flemish Minister-President Jan Jambon, New Zealand bilateral Ambassador Diana Reaich and the Canadian Ambassador to the EU Ailish Campbell.
Panel Discussion on Ukraine with the Scottish Council on Global Affairs and the European Policy Centre: 7 December 2022
Scotland House Brussels hosted a panel discussion with the Scottish Council on Global Affairs and the European Policy Centre on the international response to the conflict in Ukraine. EU Director Martin Johnson welcomed guests and the panel included Iryna Yefremova, Deputy Ambassador of Ukraine to the EU; Professor Juliet Karbo from Edinburgh University; Estonian Permanent Representative to the EU Aivo Orav; and the US Deputy Ambassador to NATO, Rick Holtzapple. They emphasised the importance of continued EU, member state, third country and wider international support for Ukraine and the many forms this takes, including financial and practical assistance for the country's reconstruction. MEP David McAllister, chair of the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the closing remarks, where he spoke of the courage of the Ukrainian people, his own experience of visiting the country and the importance of defending European values.
Scotland House Brussels Ceilidh on Schuman Roundabout: 8 December 2022
As part of the Schuman Lights Up Festival organised by the Brussels Capital Region, we hosted visitors from the European quarter with our traditional ceilidh event on the Schuman roundabout. This included music from the Scottish ceilidh band the Hoggies.
Hydrogen exhibition at the Schuman Lights Up Festival: 8 December 2022
Together with our colleagues from the Welsh Government office, we presented at a special EU hydrogen exhibition to showcase Scotland’s plan to and green hydrogen potential.
2021
Tourism and COVID-19 Recovery: 19 January 2021
Scotland House Brussels launched its 2021 events calendar with a webinar on the role of data and innovation in the responsible recovery of the European tourism sector. The event was moderated by Cristina Nuñez, Director of NECSTouR (Network of European Regions for Sustainable and Competitive Tourism) and brought together European tourism stakeholders to showcase three excellent examples of how they are using data and innovation to drive a sustainable recovery.
Scotland’s Winter Festivals - Burns Night: 25 January 2020 to 29 January 2021
Scotland House Brussels hosted its annual celebrations in honour of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns, this year in a virtual celebration of poetry and song and a virtual toast on social media on the theme of a #BurnsNightIn. On Monday, 25 January, in a series of virtual concerts, Postcards from Scotland, showcased some of Scotland’s best-known traditional music bands, including Breabach, Elephant Sessions, Niteworks, Skerryvore and many more. On Friday, 29 January, Scottish Poetry Library prepared a pass-the-mic session between Scottish and Irish poets and musicians, drawing on the spirit of Burns for a fresh mix of spoken word and verse. The event was hosted by Vic Galloway with Victoria McNulty, Kevin Gilday, Courtney Stoddart, Kapil Seshasayee and more.
Scottish universities addressing global challenges: 5 February 2021
This conversation focused on how the world-leading research undertaken by Scottish universities remains important and relevant to Europe. The event brought together Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Professor Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellors of the University of Glasgow and the University of Edinburgh respectively, with Professor Kurt Deketelaere, Secretary-General of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and Professor Jan Palmowski, Secretary-General of The Guild. They discussed through Horizon Europe, Scotland's researchers will continue to work with partners across Europe to address our shared global challenges and the crucial role networks will play in keeping UK universities engaged in European research discourse and collaboration.
EU Industry Week event: 22 February 2021
As part of the European Commission’s EU Industry Week, Scotland House Brussels hosted a discussion alongside the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP), and ID4CAR, focussed on innovation models developed by both MSIP and ID4CAR in order to support the transition of the sector to zero emission mobility and explore how these models could be replicated elsewhere.
EU Industry Week event: 25 February 2021
As part of the European Commission’s EU Industry Week, Scotland House Brussels supported an interactive event co-hosted by CivTech Scotland, GovTech Lithuania and Accelerate Estonia, which focussed on digital innovation in GovTech and the key role that the public sector plays in supporting SMEs to develop innovative and exportable technologies. The session explored proven methods of digital innovation, including through GovTech programmes, and showed how these solutions are delivering better outcomes for citizens using digital technologies in their day to day lives and shaping their interaction with government and society.
Photonics and Quantum Online Event: 19 May 2021
Scotland House Brussels organised an online panel discussion on photonics and quantum. Chaired by EU Director, Martin Johnson, the debate highlighted the areas of expertise in Scotland as well as the strong partnerships between Scotland and Europe in this field. Panelists included speakers from Physics Scotland, Technology Scotland, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (German Research Organisation), Heriot-Watt University, University of Strathclyde, and the European Commission.
Wellbeing Economy Specialist Roundtable: 13 September 2021
The Scottish Government held a closed roundtable looking at case studies of examples of the Wellbeing Economy and ‘Beyond Gross Domestic Product (GDP)’. The event was moderated by Martine Durand, who is an independent international expert and former Chief Statistician of OECD. The main speakers were Dr Päivi Mattila-Wiro: Ministerial Adviser, Ministry of Social Affairs & Health, Finland, Dr Gary Gillespie, Chief Economist, Scottish Government and Barbara Bacigalupi: Economist, statistician, DG Environment, European Commission. There was then a discussion which members of the roundtable were invited to join. There were 22 participants from Scottish Government, European Commission and EU Agencies, and the European Council.
TRANSPOESIE 2021: 30 September 2021
The TRANSPOSIE poetry festival 2021, titled ‘Action or Inaction – The New Generation’, focused on the new generation, with readings from young poets all across Europe and discussion on engaging poetry and how it can impact society. The Scottish Government invited Scottish poet, Len Pennie, who writes predominantly in the Scots language, to participate online. She is passionate about the promotion of minority languages and the destigmatisation of mental illness.
Series of COP26-related events hosted at Scotland House Brussels: September to October 2021
On 25 October, Scotland Europa invited Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon to host an online event as part of EU Sustainable Energy Week. The discussion involved the innovative work being done by islands and rural areas when it comes to the net zero transition. Ms. Gougeon stressed that for COP26 to be successful, action needs to be taken rather than remaining in rhetorical discussion. She also highlighted how remote Scottish Islands have developed ambitious net zero energy plans as a result of this work with the European Commission.
On 21 September, speakers made up an online panel for a Scotland House Brussels event on peatland restoration. Discussion involved how a nature-based ‘super solution’ can be achieved. More specifically, safeguarding a huge carbon store, protecting unique biodiversity, improving water quality, and creating green jobs were prominent throughout the debate.
Wellbeing Economy Webinar: 5 October 2021
Scottish Government hosted a Webinar entitled “Greener, Fairer, More Prosperous: A Wellbeing Economy Approach to an Inclusive and Sustainable Post-Pandemic Recovery.” The main speakers were Gary Gillespie, Chief Economist, Scottish Government, Dr Päivi Mattila-Wiro: Ministerial Adviser, Ministry of Social Affairs & Health, Finland, and Carl Reach, Ambassador of New Zealand to the EU and NATO.
St Andrew’s Day Lecture 2021: 1 December 2021
For Scotland House Brussels’ annual St Andrew’s Day lecture, CEO of Scottish Enterprise, Adrian Gillespie, was invited to speak on the subject, “A Fairer, Greener Planet – Driving Innovation in Scotland to Build a Planet Fit for Future Generations”. Following the end of COP26 in Glasgow, this lecture was a timely opportunity to reflect on the outcomes of the conference, for both Scotland and the wider world. It also provided the opportunity to discuss the next steps that are required to deliver climate ambitions and ensure COP26 has a positive legacy.
- First published
- 5 March 2021
- Last updated
- 9 March 2026 - show all updates
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Updated to include events held in 2025.
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Updated to include events held in 2024.
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All page content updated to reflect events held from 2021 to 2023.
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