In Ans, the neutrality of the public service is the result of a clear political choice, championed and implemented by the alderwoman in charge of personnel, Anne Marie Libon. The aim is simple: to guarantee every citizen an equal, impartial and accessible public service, regardless of their beliefs.
In practice, the City applies a neutrality rule when carrying out municipal duties: staff do not wear visible religious or philosophical symbols while working for the administration. This policy is applied generally, consistently and systematically to all staff involved in running the public service.
Recently, the Liège Labour Court confirmed the legality of this approach. It ruled that the neutrality policy of the City of Ans does not constitute discrimination based on religion and that it fully complies with the principles of Belgian and European law. This decision follows directly on from a ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which had already recognised that public service neutrality is a legitimate aim for a municipal administration and that a policy of strict neutrality can be accepted within this framework.
For the alderwoman, this judicial confirmation is the culmination of rigorous and consistent work, pursued steadily and supported by all liberal elected representatives. The neutrality of the public service is not directed against any religion, belief or community. On the contrary, it aims to preserve a calm common framework, based on equal treatment, trust in the administration and respect for everyone.
In Ans, the MR is thus championing a responsible and balanced vision of the public service: clear, firmly applied and fair rules, serving social cohesion and community life.