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 behavior 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 start, maybe a confidential chat with HR could help.

    Is your HR, Office Manager, boss the same person? Speak to some of our coaches.

  • 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 Shweta on LinkedIn to get help from those happy to help.

  • We can't stress this enough - taking care of mental health is crucial. Do your best and see if you can set boundaries, find time for activities you enjoy, and perhaps talking to a counselor. Remember, it’s okay to seek help to navigate these challenging situations.

  • There are quite a few resources out there—support groups, counseling services, and advice on legal rights, just to name a few. We at A Better Brussels are continuing to build these resources, offer listening space, list of workshops 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. We’re a grassroots movement that started because we are aware of the extent of the problem. We will do our best to help.

  • Feeling connected can make a big difference. We do plan to host listening forums and support groups 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 focused on transforming the work environment within the EU's policymaking sphere in Brussels. We are an awareness campaign dedicated to addressing the challenges of toxic work environments in the EU policymaking space.

  • We have found that many of us have encountered toxic work environments, but there's no structured conversation around addressing the problem. So, we put our thoughts on paper and hope to bring these hidden challenges into the open, and see if we can put our contacts, thought leadership together to help those suffering... or those who know others who are... or those leaders have some self-awareness that they want to do better in the people management department.

  • 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.

  • Creating 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.

  • 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 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.