One single approach for transmigrants, from Brussels to the coast

“Every authority, from mayor to minister, must unite on this approach. From Brussels to the coast.” Minister of the Interior Jan Jambon wants a single approach for transmigrants across the country. He asks that mayors follow the federal government’s quick enforcement response policy. Belgium remains a popular transit country for migrants who want to travel to England. “When camps arise or public order is disrupted, local authorities must take vigorous action.”

Cooperation

In recent weeks, more transmigrants have once again been appearing in Brussels’ Maximilian Park. Last week, Secretary of State for Asylum and Migration Theo Francken criticised the lack of cooperation by Brussels’ PS Mayor Philippe Close. Minister Jambon is now calling on all mayors to cooperate with the federal government. He himself is stepping up the fight against illegal migration.

Breaking up smuggling rings

Specialist police teams will carry out checks on popular smuggling routes. These are the trains that travel from Brussels to the coast, used by people traffickers. The coastal tram and a shuttle bus between Adinkerke in Belgium and Dunkirk in France are also popular among transmigrants. “We must break the business model of the smuggling rings,” Minister Jambon says, prepared for the battle.

Tougher security for motorway parking areas

Flemish Minister of Mobility Ben Weyts is doing his bit and investing four million euros in motorway parking areas that are more secure. Many transmigrants take the train to stations near motorways, where they enter car parks and climb aboard HGVs. Specifically, Minister Weyts is investing in fences, cameras and the conversion of motorway parking areas into sites for long-term or short-term parking.