'POSTCOLONIAL' HOUSE OF EUROPEAN HISTORY, BRUSSELS

POSTCOLONIAL

HOUSE OF EUROPEAN HISTORY  

April 17, 2026 - March 14, 2027

Brussels, Belgium

Following the Second World War, colonial power seemed to crumble. From 1945 to the end of the twentieth century, more than 80 colonies overcame European rule and declared independence. After decades or even centuries of resistance to brutal oppression, their victories appeared to mark a decisive break with the past. But appearances can be deceiving.

How did the colonial matrix of power – the ideas, events, inequalities and injustices born of colonialism – continue to shape the modern world? 

The House of European History, opened in 2017, has a mission and a responsibility to examine Europe’s history. Our current displays do not say enough about the ongoing impacts of colonialism. They neglect the voices of those who suffered and resisted colonial violence.

This exhibition marks the beginning of a journey for our team to address that shortcoming. The exhibition will be a catalyst to revise our displays throughout the rest of the museum.

Curated by Ayoko Mensah, Simina Badica and Joanna Urbanek.