The Obama-effect: moving to the land of renewed hope and glory

The new resident of the White House didn’t only bring back hope into many American hearts, this new hope crossed the Atlantic and brought back a feeling of respect and fraternity between US and European citizens. Suddenly the US doesn’t seem like a gun loving, imperialistic, obese almost bloodthirsty nation anymore but rather represents a country where change is possible and hope is alive. This change gives a great incentive to every European who has ever considered moving to the US. The Flemish organisation Vlamingen in de Wereld, which offers assistance to Belgian expats, has noticed a large increase of interest in our country. VIM offers 2 information sessions regarding 'moving to the US' every year but are now overwhelmed with candidates and will have to organise additional sessions this year to meet the demand. Participants have more than doubled since Barack Obama was certain of his place in the oval office. But not only individuals are searching to find a new life on the other side of the pond, more and more European companies are preparing to enter the American market.

The new image Obama gave to his country has restored the European confidence in the US, let’s hope he’ll live up to his expectations.

Felix Braeckman

Source: De Standaard (18/11/2008)