Career
After studying in Brussels and qualifying as a teacher (Dutch/English/Economics), Staes turned to politics, beginning his political career in the Volksunie, which later became Spirit. Following the formation of the electoral alliance (cartel) between Spirit and the Socialistische Partij Anders (spa) in 2002, Staes moved to join Agalev (as it was then known. Today, Groen). His particular interests are the environment and peace movements.
Staes was first elected into the in 1999 and was reelected, as only member from his party, in 2004 and 2009.
He currently sits on the Committee on Budgetary Control and the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety. Second follower VU-senate list (1995–1999)
Member Spirit-party persidency (2001–2002)
Mandatory of Agalev/Groen! (juli 2002 - )
initiator of the Intergroup Chechnya
Author of manifesto from the Gravensteengroep
Publication Het vlees is zwak met Jaak Vandemeulebroucke, Hadewijch, Antwerpen, 1996
Echo"s voor een ander Europa, Houtekiet, Antwerpen, 2004
Voor een ander Europa, Houtekiet, Antwerpen, 2009
GGO"s: Droom of werkelijkheid, Houtekiet, Antwerpen, 2012
Timeline.