Cycling is embedded in Flanders' DNA. Today, 18.5% of all trips are made by bike, and for commuting that figure rises above 22%. This places us among Europe's leading regions, and we continue to invest in safer, better-connected cycling networks. The results are visible in our cities as well: in the 2025 Copenhagenize Index, Ghent ranks 3rd worldwide and Antwerp 8th — both firmly within the global top 10.
Annick De Ridder is Flemish Minister for Mobility, Public Works, Ports and Sport. She was born in Antwerp and developed an early affinity with infrastructure and port-related activities, inspired by her family background connected to the Port of Antwerp. She holds a Master’s degree in Law and obtained a postgraduate certificate in Corporate Finance. Before entering full-time politics, she worked as a lawyer at the Antwerp Bar. Her political career began at local level in Antwerp and expanded to the Flemish Parliament, where she has served since 2004. From 2019 to 2024, she was vice mayor for Port Affairs, Urban Development and Spatial Planning in the City of Antwerp. Annick De Ridder has been Flemish Minister since September 2024, with responsibilities including mobility and transport infrastructure. Her policy focus lies on sustainable mobility, traffic safety, strong cycling infrastructure and the integration of economic development with high-quality public space. She strongly believes that well-designed mobility systems are essential for economic resilience, social inclusion and liveable cities.
