​On 9th April, the bureau members of the EA group have taken part in a study visit in Mechelen upon invitation of Mr. Marc Hendrickx, "schepen" of Mechelen and member of the N-VA political party.

The study visit focussed on local governance structures, remits, competences and financing of local authorities in Flanders, also including its relationship with the EU. An overview of the N-VA recent history, its achievements as well as its main vision for the future was also given to members.  Members, while exchanging their views on the different models existing in their respective countries, have praised the success of the N-VA policy and its outstanding results which have made it the biggest and most influential political party in Flanders.