News

Theo Francken unveils SHIELD, Belgium’s National Defence Plan: “Security starts with preparedness”

29 June 2026

“National defence is no longer solely the responsibility of the armed forces. With the SHIELD Plan, we are ensuring that every level of government works together to better protect our citizens, our infrastructure and our institutions.” With those words, Minister of Defence Theo Francken presented …

N-VA wants to put an end to abuse of green passports

26 June 2026

Green passports allow holders to enter the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, according to MP Kathleen Depoorter, they are increasingly being misused to facilitate long-term stays in Belgium. “This has to stop,” Depoorter says. She has …

Europe steps up its fight against child sexual abuse

23 June 2026

Europe is taking a major step forward in the fight against child sexual abuse and exploitation. Negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council have reached an agreement on a new directive that will strengthen measures against these crimes. The legislation introduces tougher penalties, …

Asylum applications fall to their lowest level since 2022

22 June 2026

The number of asylum applications in Belgium continues to decline sharply. In May 2026, 28% fewer applications for international protection were submitted than in the same month last year, bringing the monthly total to its lowest level since 2022. “The figures are even slightly below the most …

Eva Demesmaeker proposes pension splitting: “Fairly sharing pension rights after divorce”

17 June 2026

MP Eva Demesmaeker explained her proposal for pension splitting on De Ochtend, a system that would ensure pension rights are shared fairly when a couple separates. “It’s only logical that we recognise the value of caregiving responsibilities within a family,” Demesmaeker said. The blind spot in …

From 16 months to 3: fast-track project aims to significantly shorten asylum procedures

12 June 2026

Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt is launching a pilot project at Ariane, a Red Cross reception centre. Initially, the centre will provide accommodation for 200 asylum seekers whose chances of being granted protection are considered low. The aim is to speed up the processing of …

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