On 2025-06-05 19:32:00, Belgium witnessed a historic moment as all fifteen King’s prosecutors united to address the alarming state of justice in the country. This unprecedented collective action highlights deep-rooted issues affecting the Belgian judicial system, from overcrowded prisons to deteriorating court infrastructure.
- Procureurs sturen open brief aan regering
- Justitie kampt met structurele onderfinanciering
- Overbevolkte gevangenissen en slechte infrastructuur
- Magistraten eisen langetermijnvisie en middelen
- Minister Verlinden belooft actie en overleg
- Werkgroepen moeten leiden tot actieplan
Oost-Vlaams procureur Geert Merchiers described the gathering as “historic,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The prosecutors jointly sent an open letter to Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden, signaling a desperate call for urgent reforms and increased funding.
What does this mean for Belgium’s justice system moving forward? The prosecutors’ concerns about underfunding, poor working conditions, and ineffective enforcement raise critical questions about the government’s commitment to justice reform.
Why has it taken so long for such a unified voice to emerge, and will this prompt meaningful government response? The letter highlights issues that have long been overlooked:
- Chronic prison overcrowding and staff shortages delaying investigations
- Substandard working conditions, including decaying buildings and lack of resources
- Discrepancy between government promises and actual support for justice
- Calls for a long-term investment plan rather than temporary fixes
As Justice Minister Verlinden commits to action plans and increased funding, the question remains: will Belgium’s government translate these words into sustained reforms? The public and legal professionals alike await tangible improvements to restore trust and efficiency in the country’s justice system.
