The LRE Foundation is pleased to announce that Dr. Chantal Kesteloot has joined its Historical Advisory Board. With an impressive career dedicated to contemporary history, public memory, and the dissemination of historical knowledge, her expertise will significantly contribute to the Foundation’s mission of preserving and promoting the legacy of the Second World War across Europe.
Chantal Kesteloot earned her PhD in Contemporary History from the Université libre de Bruxelles in 2001. She has been a part of the CegeSoma/State Archives team since 1992, where she currently heads the Public History Unit. Her work has focused on the history of Brussels, Belgian national memory, and commemorative practices. A recognized expert on odonymy and the legacy of colonialism in public spaces, she is engaged in exploring how history is remembered and interpreted in the public arena.
Among her notable contributions is the coordination of Belgium WWII, a digital platform that brings scholarly research on Belgium during the Second World War to a broader public. This initiative exemplifies her commitment to making complex historical topics accessible and relevant to today’s society.
Upon joining the LREF Historical Advisory Board, Chantal Kesteloot shared:
“As a member of the historical advisory board, I hope to be able to contribute to a better understanding of the history of the Second World War, and to help pass on its legacy in an international context where fake news – including about this period – is unfortunately playing an increasingly important role.”
The LRE Foundation’s Historical Advisory Board plays a vital role in advising on the historical scope of its projects and overseeing the development of content and research. Chantal Kesteloot’s background and perspective will provide essential guidance as the Foundation continues to develop initiatives that connect people and places through Europe’s shared wartime history.
The LRE Foundation looks forward to working with her in strengthening the historical integrity and educational impact of its work.
