Authorities in Belgium’s largest cities, Brussels and Antwerp, have announced stringent measures to prevent disturbances during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Among the strategies unveiled, a controversial decision to impose house arrest on identified hooligans has sparked significant debate. The initiative aims to curb potential incidents of violence and ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
Background of the Decision
New Year’s Eve in Belgium has often been marred by outbreaks of disorder, particularly in urban centres. In previous years, incidents of vandalism, arson, and clashes with police have disrupted celebrations. To address these issues, city officials and law enforcement agencies have sought preemptive measures.
The house arrest policy targets individuals previously identified as repeat offenders or those with a record of participating in violent incidents during public events. These individuals will be required to remain at home under strict monitoring from 6 PM on December 31 until the morning of January 1. In Antwerp alone, 47 individuals, mostly teenagers, are subject to this measure.
Implementation
Both Brussels and Antwerp authorities compiled lists of individuals deemed likely to pose a risk to public order well in advance of the New Year’s celebrations. Those affected have already received official notifications, and compliance will be enforced through a combination of physical checks by police and electronic monitoring where feasible. In Antwerp, police will conduct visits to ensure individuals under house arrest are complying with the restrictions.
Mayor Bart De Wever of Antwerp has defended the measure, stating it targets individuals involved in serious offenses such as arson, vandalism, and attacks on public officials or citizens. “It’s not about small pranks,” De Wever noted, emphasising that these measures are aimed at preventing more serious harm.
Legal Challenge
For the first time, the legality of the house arrest policy is being formally challenged. A 17-year-old Antwerp resident, under house arrest for the second consecutive year, has filed an appeal with the Council of State. His lawyer, Abderrahim Lahlali, argues that the sanctions lack a solid legal basis and disproportionately affect the entire family. The Council of State is expected to deliver a ruling soon, which could set a significant precedent.
This challenge has reignited a broader debate over the legality and proportionality of such measures. Legal experts and human rights groups, including the Human Rights League, have criticised the approach. They argue that less intrusive options, such as area bans, could achieve the same objectives without infringing on personal freedoms to this extent.
Reaction and Criticism
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from the public and civil liberties groups. Proponents argue that the measure is a practical and necessary response to recurring disturbances, which often result in injuries and significant costs for local governments.
However, critics have raised concerns about potential overreach and the risk of targeting individuals without sufficient evidence. Professors Stefaan Pleysier and Johan Put of KU Leuven have questioned the legal grounds for the policy, stating that vague interpretations of mayoral powers could lead to abuses. The Human Rights League has echoed these sentiments, warning of the dangers of expanding municipal authority without clear legislative support.
Broader Security Measures
In addition to house arrest, both cities are implementing additional security measures to ensure public safety. In Brussels, police operations will be coordinated under a unified command led by the Brussels-Capital/Ixelles police zone. Special attention will be given to high-traffic areas, including the Grand Place and the Atomium, where the city’s official New Year’s fireworks display will take place. Entrance to the fireworks area will include security checks, and attendees have been advised against bringing prohibited items such as bags and glass bottles.
Fireworks displays, often a flashpoint for incidents, will also be regulated. In Brussels, an official fireworks show will take place under strict supervision, while private displays will be heavily restricted. Antwerp has banned individual fireworks altogether, citing safety concerns.
Read also:
Belgium: Terror Plotters Sentenced to 13 Years for Targeting Antwerp Mayor De Wever
