For most, government documents are boring procedures, but Belgium wanted to change that concept; That’s why the small Western European nation is making a big splash with its new passport, featuring homegrown comic strip characters.
The Smurfs, Blake and Mortimer, Tintin, Lucky Luke and many more iconic characters appear on the new Belgian passports. And the famous comic strip stars have now been given a role that goes beyond entertainment and cultural representation: their special design helps protect against counterfeiters.
In a press release Belgian Deputy Prime Minister Sophie Wilmès said: “The Belgian passport is one of the best in the world, it is a source of pride for us, but also an object of desire for counterfeiters,” she said.
“That is why we are constantly working to improve your security. The introduction of this new passport is also an opportunity for us to highlight the ninth art, the comic strip, which is a central element of our culture and our influence abroad”, added Wilmès.
Why comic strips?
In Belgium, comic strips are considered the “ninth art” and are considered part of the shared national identity (the other eight arts are painting, sculpture, theatre, architecture, music, dance, literature and film).
Its popularity began at the end of the decade of 1920 with the creation of Tintin and reached its peak in the decade of 1950 when Blake and Mortimer and the Smurfs entered the scene.
While characters, drawing techniques, and media formats have changed over the years, comic strips are still quite popular. Even today, Belgium has more comic artists per square kilometer than anywhere else in the world.
It has been said that the Belgians’ interpretation of the comic strip reflects their way of thinking and how foreign countries have seen throughout modern history. So adding comic book heroes and heroines to your passport seems like a logical and endearing way to commemorate heritage and unique perspective.
Security update and comic strips
Counterfeiters will no longer have the last laugh when trying to fool the authorities. Character silhouettes are visible to the naked eye, but some parts of the design, such as texture and facial expressions, only show up under UV light, creating a complex layer of security.
Since Belgian passports are highly sought after by counterfeiters, the enhanced security will make the work of customs officers a little easier and may even add a touch of humor and fun to your day.
#BREAKING #ThisIsBelgium !
The new passports became effective on February 2, 2022. The old version of the passport remains valid until it expires. Fortunately for passport holders, there won’t be a price increase for the addition of all that Belgian pride.
A celebration for all Belgians
Yes find yourself queuing at customs with a Belgian citizen, you may feel a little jealous or have a sudden desire to go see an episode of The Smurfs.
But for those of us who can’t see one in person, the cultural tribute will hopefully remind us to revisit the characters that have captivated minds and hearts, of all ages, around the world. world.
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