Warm tribute has been paid to Hans de Bruijn (pictured), a long-time stalwart of the media scene in Brussels, who has died, aged 75.
He was Secretary General of the Brussels-based International Press Association, API-IPA, the primary group to unite non-Belgian journalists of all classes and specializations based mostly in Belgium.
Hans had served within the function since 2013. He handed away on 30 November.
On Friday, API-IPA issued an announcement which mentioned he had “confirmed quiet, affected person, and unwavering dedication after a brave battle with sickness.”
The assertion learn: “More than a secretary basic, Hans was a pricey buddy to so many people.
“Loyal, first rate, and at all times modest, he had a continuing, grounded sense of what was possible, acceptable, and easily the precise factor to do. Hans’ dedication to API-IPA was boundless, lasting till the very finish of his battle with sickness.”
Born in The Hague in 1950, Hans spent a few years of his skilled profession outdoors his residence nation, working as a correspondent in Brussels and Washington. Yet he at all times remained connected to his origins. He turned API vice-president in 2011 after a 37-year profession on the Netherlands Press Association (GPD).
The assertion added: “We are deeply grateful for his boundless dedication to API. Even as he battled sickness, Hans was the driving power behind our Fiftieth-anniversary celebration in July on the Residence Palace.
“Both the small and main duties he carried out—quietly, diligently, and with out fanfare—had been important to defending overseas correspondents.
“His absence is felt acutely in our small, volunteer-driven group. And we mourn his loss. But we additionally keep in mind the enjoyment and professionalism that Hans delivered to our work. Hans held clear views on how you can transfer our API ahead, but he at all times listened and persistently solid compromises within the curiosity of Brussels’ whole worldwide press corps—members and non-members alike.
“This made him a deeply revered interlocutor in relations with the EU establishments, NATO, and the Belgian authorities.”
The assertion mentioned: “Never judgmental and at all times in a position to see the lighter facet, Hans made our correspondents’ neighborhood each stronger and kinder.
“We encourage all API members to carry his spouse Elianne, his household, and his family members of their ideas throughout this tough time.”
“Hans was such a good and sort individual. After a full and spectacular profession as a journalist, he took on the function of Secretary General of the International Press Association. When others would have been completely satisfied to place their toes up, Hans was very a lot dedicated to preventing the nook and attaining one of the best outcomes for journalists. His lengthy profession and expertise had been invaluable and he’s tremendously, tremendously missed,” mentioned API Vice President Catherine Feore.
* A funeral service will happen on Saturday, 6 December at 3pm. within the Eikenveld corridor of Begrafenissen Pues in Herent.
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