Controversial Belgian bill could bar protestors from demonstrations for up to six years
A revised version of a disputed law that would prohibit individuals convicted of protest-related offenses from joining demonstrations for up to six years has re-emerged in Belgium’s parliament.
After being shelved in late 2023 following a nationwide outcry, a contentious amendment to Belgium’s penal code has resurfaced in parliament, aiming to punish protest-related crimes with imprisonment, fines and a ban on future demonstrations lasting up to six years. The bill, originally authored by former justice minister Vincent Van Quickenborne, would empower judges to prohibit individuals convicted of vandalism, destruction or violence at public events from taking part in any future protest for three to six years.
While the government says the goal is to curb hooliganism and clashes with police, trade unions and NGOs fear the measure could be wielded against legitimate strikes and peaceful rallies. Amnesty International has condemned the draft, arguing it would silence dissent, infringe on freedom of movement and likely trigger mass surveillance tools such as facial-recognition systems. The revised text retains ambiguous references to “public order” and “disruptive collective actions,” leaving room for broad interpretation by authorities.
Why it matters
The bill could dramatically limit citizens' ability to protest, affecting democratic participation in Belgium.
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