In autumn 1966, Jean Loyrette told a young associate, “We must go to Brussels, the construction of Europe is underway. More and more legal issues will be decided over there. I’d like to send you there”.

At that time, few believed that Europe would structure to this extent the regulations and law applicable in Member States. Jean Loyrette saw through it and established the foundations for Gide’s future international network, clearly stating its pioneering spirit and its international ambition, starting at the same time a tradition that is specific to the firm: giving the reins of a new office to young talented lawyers.

Today, Gide’s teams in Brussels continue to mould European texts that set the framework for new economic and legal balance. In 2017, it has become an obvious choice to be here. Fifty years ago, it was not.
Baudouin de Moucheron, Senior Partner

To celebrate this very special anniversary for the firm, its Brussels-based teams, which are representative of Europe with over 10 nationalities represented, share with you what constitutes, in their opinion, the best accomplishments of the European Union:

The most incredible success of the European Union, one that we forget too often, that we can no longer find the means to measure, and that we do not talk about enough, is peace. Nothing else could guarantee peace as much as the European Union.
Benoit Le Bret

For me, the greatest accomplishment is the single market, and all its components. Europe developed, via the single currency, a model in competition law that can be exported and used as an example and an inspiration for other countries.
Stéphane Hautbourg

The portability of online content, enabling European citizens to access all their content on the internet, regardless of the member state they are in”.
Marc-Antoine de Chillaz

Erasmus, without hesitation. It is the most fantastic experience, a great adventure and a lesson in open-mindedness.
Diana Calciu & Giacomo Grechi

The European Community’s ability to create a rich cultural experience in which, despite different cultures, we can share the same values.
Angela Guarrata

Free circulation! We all benefit from it. We can work and travel freely without any barriers.
Louise Macnab & Chloé Lameille

The most incredible feat of Europe is to have brought together countries with different cultures and different social policies, around a single and common project: a union without borders, with guaranteed multiple freedoms.
Corinne Rydzinski & Romain Rard

With the European Union, the regulation of certain sectors makes it possible to re-establish fair competition to the benefit of consumers. I'm thinking, for instance, of the recent decision to fine Google a record 2.42 billion euros for abuse of dominant position.
Ségolène Pelsy

The greatest achievement of Europe is undoubtedly the monetary economy.
Stéphanie Seeuws

For me, it is the generalised rise in standards of living within the European Union, particularly in less development regions.
Clément Bouvarel