CGSO receives the Lucia De Brouckère Prize for decades-long commitment to sexual health and relational well-being

On December 8, the Centre for Birth Control and Sexual Education (CGSO) received the biennial Lucia De Brouckère Prize. The award honors the organization’s more than fifty years of dedication to sexual health, relational well-being, and free thinking. The prize is named after Lucia De Brouckère, a pioneer of women’s rights, scientist, and Freemason.

Since its founding in the early 1970s, CGSO has played a leading role in opening up conversations about sexuality and relationships. Through training sessions and workshops, the organization promotes dialogue, respect, and equality. According to coordinator Ymke Snauwaert, this approach is more important than ever today. In a social climate marked by polarization and radicalization, basic sexual education is no longer sufficient: young people need an open, listening approach that leaves room for multiple perspectives.

CGSO’s people-centered social engagement closely aligns with the values of the prize. Freedom, equality, and critical thinking have been at the core of its work since the very beginning. The fact that CGSO was founded at a time when information about contraception was legally prohibited underscores both the importance and the courage of its mission.

The award ceremony took place in the Salons of the City of Bruges, in the presence of representatives from civil society, Freemasonry, and the city administration. For CGSO, a member organization of deMens.nu, the prize is not only a recognition of past efforts but also an encouragement to continue fulfilling its social role.

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