News

Big news: Feestlokaal Vooruit is officially on the candidate list for UNESCO World Heritage! A milestone for this Ghent heritage and the power of solidarity. The final decision will be made in the summer of 2027.

Party venue Vooruit

The nomination of Feestlokaal Vooruit is a wonderful recognition of this iconic Ghent heritage and of the power of solidarity. The building is a brilliant example of how cooperatives propelled the labour movement and democratic ideals at the beginning of the 20th century. Thousands of workers came together to advocate for social rights and to enjoy affordable cultural facilities. The influence of the Vooruit cooperative reached far beyond our national borders - and the cooperative idea is back in full force today. 

Amsab-ISG collaborated on the nomination file and framed the unique historical value of Feestlokaal Vooruit within the international network Workers' Assembly Halls. This network, coordinated by the Danish Arbejdersmuseet, unites social housing from three countries in a common commitment to recognition of the social role that social housing has played all over the world and the unique architecture that it has displayed.

UNESCO's final decision is expected in the summer of 2027.

To the Workers' Assembly Halls of the World website

Read more about the UNESCO dossier