The Franstalige ondernemingsrechtbank van Brussel has announced a significant protest action affecting the Belgian justice system. Starting 2025-05-09 22:42:00, all cases involving the Belgian state or public authorities as plaintiffs, including bankruptcy files, will be postponed. This move also halts cooperation in judicial dissolutions of companies.
- Franstalige ondernemingsrechtbank verwijst staatsdossiers naar rol
- Rechtbank stopt medewerking gerechtelijke ontbinding vennootschappen
- Justitie kampt met ernstige onderfinanciering en werkdruk
- Magistraten klagen over onwaardige werkomstandigheden en lage budgetten
- Regeringsplannen verlagen magistratenpensioenen zonder duidelijke uitleg
- Rechtbank waarschuwt voor verdere protestmaatregelen tegen overheidspolitiek
This protest stems from decades of underfunding in the justice sector and recent federal government plans to alter magistrates’ pensions. The court’s spokesperson highlighted the strain on the judicial system, emphasizing that magistrates are working excessive hours under deteriorating conditions.
What does this mean for Belgium’s legal landscape and its citizens? The implications are profound, as the court warns of further measures if government actions continue to threaten access to quality justice.
How will this protest affect the Belgian justice system’s efficiency and public trust? The move raises critical concerns about resource allocation and judicial independence. Key points include:
- Justice budget is only 0.44% of government spending, leading to staff shortages and overwork.
- Magistrates in Brussels’ commercial court work 54 hours weekly, yet the court is understaffed by over 3 magistrates.
- Judicial infrastructure is deteriorating, with courts operating in poor conditions.
- Planned pension cuts threaten to demotivate and drive away experienced magistrates.
Looking ahead, will the federal government engage constructively to resolve these tensions? Ensuring adequate funding and fair pension conditions is vital to uphold Belgium’s rule of law and restore confidence in its courts.
