The non-profit International Press Association (API a.s.b.l.) was established on 27 June, 1975. The Articles of Constitution were published in Belgium’s official journal, the Moniteur Belge, on 20 November of the same year.
API succeeded the Union of Foreign Press in Belgium that had operated for around 50 years. API’s formation resulted from the merger of the Union of Foreign Press in Belgium with the Association of Journalists of the European Press, an organization originally created to represent reporters covering European institutions. While API is commonly referred to as the International Press Association (IPA) in English, this is not part of its registered official name.
API was and is the first organization to unite non-Belgian journalists of all categories and specializations based in Belgium and working for international media. Our membership is open to journalists employed by one or more media outlets—whether as staff or freelancers—whose headquarters are located abroad, or who can demonstrate that their work is targeted at a non-Belgian audience.
Members typically report on international institutions based in Belgium or cover events occurring within the country. Belgian journalists reporting on European or other international organizations, such as NATO, may also join the association.
API is not a trade union. Instead, we focus on supporting members in their professional activities and daily lives while working in a foreign country. The association is self-financed, through membership fees, so as to ensure independence.
As the recognized voice of non-Belgian journalists in Belgium, API plays a crucial role in liaising with national and international institutions on issues relevant to the profession. This includes facilitating access to information, ensuring favorable working conditions at events like EU Presidency conferences, and addressing challenges faced by foreign journalists living in Belgium.
API has long advocated for foreign journalists to be involved in the accreditation process and the recognition of professional journalism in Belgium. In response to this, Belgian authorities established a Consultative Committee in 1992 as part of the process for recognizing and protecting the title of journalist. API also participates in the accreditation process for the main EU institutions (Commission, Council, Parliament) and is consulted by NATO about accreditation issues.
