Important new steps in the fight against radicalism and terrorism

At the beginning of this year, the federal government presented a complete package of twelve new measures in the fight against radicalism and terrorism. Part of this is now ready for implementation. During the budgetary control in March, the government had earmarked an additional 200 million euros for this.

A first measure is an expansion of the list of terrorist violations where a phone tap is possible. At the same time, the government has now made leaving Belgian territory with terrorist intentions punishable by law.

Revoke ID card and passport
Furthermore, the government has extended temporary revocation of the ID card. Minister Jambon can decide to revoke the ID card, for one to three months, of a person suspected of travelling to Syria or Iraq in order to fight or train. This revocation can be extended to a maximum of six months.

Lastly, the government makes it possible to refuse and revoke passports of persons who pose a threat to the public order and to public safety. People who have had their ID card refused or revoked will in future also automatically lose their passport.