On Monday, the Flemish Government launched the English-language version of the ‘Canon’ of Flanders'. At the launch the first copies of the translation were presented to VIPs, including diplomats from the United States and the Netherlands and representatives of the Scottish and Welsh governments.
The original Dutch version of the book was published in May 2023. It is a list of 60 events, historical dates, people, traditions, books, objects and works of art that best represent Flemish identity. A committee of nine experts spent two and a half years preparing it, using the example set by the 'Dutch Canon' and selecting 60 so-called 'windows' covering themes ranging from the last Ice Age to contemporary Flanders. The contemporary thems include regional planning and a common standard language used by all Flemings.
The plan is to include the 'Canon of Flanders' in the curriculum in Flemish schools. Consequently, the Flemish Education Minister Ben Weyts (nationalist) was also a Monday’s launch.
The Dutch-language version of the ‘Canon of Flanders’ has been a great success and it has been one of the top 3 best selling books of the past year. An audio version of the book has also been made for people with poor literacy skills.
The Flemish Government chose English as the first other language in which to produce a translation of the ‘Canon of Flanders’. Translations are also planned in French and German.
The Flemish Prime Minister (who is also the minister responsible for culture) Jan Jambon (nationalist) told VRT News that "We want as many people as possible to learn about the events and the people that shaped Flanders
A website in English dedicated to the Canon of Flanders is also available online.