Sophie De Wit: “Alarming rise in cases of radicalisation and terrorism”

The number of incidents linked to radicalisation and terrorism is rising at an alarming rate, according to figures obtained by MP Sophie De Wit from the competent minister. This trend, De Wit argues, once again highlights the urgent need for a firm and decisive approach to both security and migration policy.

“It’s clear that our country is still on the radar of extremist networks. The foiled attack on Prime Minister Bart De Wever was yet another stark reminder of that,” says Sophie De Wit.

Cases of radicalisation and terrorism more than doubled

The figures show that the number of violent radicalisation incidents recorded by police services rose by 68% in four years—from 28 in 2019 to 47 in 2023. Similarly, terrorism-related offences have nearly doubled in just a few years, from around 50 cases in 2021 and 2022 to over 90 in 2024.

“I call on the minister to urgently step up efforts in the fight against radicalisation and terrorism. That means, among other things, repatriating radicalised individuals staying illegally in the country and making the glorification of terrorist organisations a criminal offence,” De Wit continues.

Striking number of minors and non-Belgians involved

Another striking trend is the young age of those involved. In 2024, no fewer than 27 of the 56 terrorism suspects were minors. And in 2023, 41 of the 78 suspects did not hold Belgian nationality — that’s more than half.

“The fact that the majority of terrorism suspects are not Belgian nationals once again highlights the close link between migration and security. Our country must take a much tougher stance on foreign nationals involved in extremism and terrorism,” Sophie De Wit concludes.

Loss of nationality and residency rights

MP Jeroen Bergers, who follows this issue in the Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs, previously submitted a bill stating that anyone convicted of terrorism who holds dual nationality should lose both their Belgian citizenship and their right to reside in the country.

“This bill targets individuals with dual nationality who reject our fundamental values. By doing so, they place themselves outside the democratic legal order — and they no longer have a place in our society,” says Jeroen Bergers.