Frequently Asked Questions

  • A toxic work environment often feels uncomfortable and can make you feel drained. It's typically marked by behaviors like bullying, discrimination, and a general lack of respect. If you notice consistent negativity or unethical behavior, it might be a sign of toxicity.

  • Reporting toxic behaviour is important, but your safety and privacy matter too. Try documenting incidents with dates and details, and use any confidential reporting systems your workplace offers. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider having a private conversation with HR—it could provide some clarity.

    But what if HR, your boss, and your office manager are all the same person? In that case, it might help to speak with one of our trusted coaches.

    You can also explore actionable steps to navigate a toxic workplace while you’re still in it: Steps You Can Take

  • You absolutely have the right to work without facing harassment or discrimination. Local and EU laws protect you. If you're facing these issues, it might be a good idea to look into these laws or speak with a legal professional to understand your rights fully.

    We are compiling a list of legal services who would be happy to help.

  • It's tough being in a toxic environment, and while it’s not always possible to just refuse to work, you do have options. Documenting experiences and seeking advice from a legal or HR expert can help you figure out the best steps to take.

    Join us during one of our listening sessions or connect with us privately via LinkedIn to get help from those happy to help.

  • We can't stress this enough, and its easier said than done. But please, please, please do your best and see if you can set boundaries, find time for activities you enjoy, and perhaps talk to a counsellor. Remember, it’s okay to seek help to navigate these challenging situations.

  • There are quite a few resources out there. From “How EU bosses can do better?” report to Am I a toxic boss?! self-assessment, we at A Better Brussels are building resources, offering listening space, and access to a network of professionals who can help.

  • Changing a toxic culture is challenging but important. You can start small: advocate for transparent communication, support colleagues who face similar issues, start documenting "workplace culture and efficiency concerns" and maybe suggest consulting organisations such as UNIA.

  • It can be disheartening if your complaints are overlooked. We have been there. If talking to management hasn’t worked, you might consider seeking external help from law firms or organisations like UNIA.

  • We're here to support you through resources like coaches, leadership training, and contacts. We can also connect you with professionals who specialise in handling toxic work situations. A Better Brussels is our side passion project, born from a deep awareness of the problem's scope. While we juggle day jobs, we’re committed to doing our best to help.

  • Feeling connected can make a big difference. We plan to continue to host listening sessions where you can meet others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your experiences can be incredibly validating and helpful.

  • A Better Brussels is an awareness campaign and resource hub dedicated to helping those affected by toxic work environments in the EU policymaking space. We are also tired of hearing about it and nothing being done to fix it, so here we are.

  • We have found that many of us have encountered toxic work environments in Brussels, but there's no structured conversation around addressing the problem.

    So we put our thoughts on paper in the hopes of bringing these hidden challenges to light and seeing if we can bring our contacts and thought leadership together to help those suffering... or those who know others who are... or those leaders who are self-aware enough to want to improve their people management skills.

  • In short:

    🥸 We focus on behaviours, not people.
    😵‍💫 Acknowledge that toxicity affects everyone, regardless of identity.
    🤔 Shift the burden of change on those who perpetuate toxic work environments, not those who endure them.
    🤥 Centre lived experiences over stats—they’re more human and nuanced.
    🫥 Recognise that mental health is hard to measure and matters deeply.

    Check out this post to learn more.

  • We are guessing that if you are asking this question, you are probably one of the lucky ones who haven't experienced it. If you haven't, lets help those struggling. 

    While we don't have comprehensive statistics to quantify every aspect of workplace toxicity in Brussels, people's lived experiences tell a compelling story. We want to do something for those affected and those looking for help.

  • The term 'the bubble' is commonly used to describe the EU policymaking community, but the issues we address extend beyond this specific group. While those within the bubble are subject to Brussels' employment rules, the challenges of toxic work environments are prevalent across various sectors in the city.

    Additionally, this name allows us to shine a light on other commendable initiatives across Brussels, fostering a city-wide culture of improvement and positivity in the workplace.

  • Being part of a healthier work environment benefits everyone. Reducing toxicity in the workplace leads to better mental health, increased job satisfaction, and higher productivity. It enables a more creative, inclusive, and dynamic professional atmosphere that helps you to deliver your best work, and Europe become a shining example for all.

  • The #BrusselsSoWhite campaign brought attention to the lack of diversity within Brussels’ bubble. While it remains an important issue, A Better Brussels is focusing on addressing the broader spectrum of workplace toxicity, which includes but is not limited to racial discrimination.

  • Our visual identity was chosen to reflect clarity, calm, and positivity—attributes that helps those who are looking for help. We imagine that their mental space is vulnerable, the least we can do is reflect this helpful space and make it welcoming and soothing, providing a visual reminder that they are not alone.

  • We take privacy and confidentiality very seriously. Any testimonial or personal story shared with us IS completely anonymous to protect the identities of those who are not comfortable revealing their personal details. We ensure that all sensitive information is handled with the utmost care and respect.

  • There are many ways to get involved and there’s lots to do with A Better Brussels. You can share your story, participate in our workshops and discussions, volunteer, or even become an ambassador. Write to us at betterbrussels@gmail.com to share your ideas on how you'd like to help those affected.