Intrafamiliaal geweld in Belgium has once again raised urgent questions about the effectiveness of current justice and prison policies. On 2025-07-08 20:39:00, the shocking case of a man setting his wife on fire in Houthalen-Helchteren brought this issue to the forefront, exposing deep wounds in the system. The incident involved a 35-year-old man, M.H., who was on extended prison leave despite a history of domestic violence and weapon offenses.
- Kamerlid Yzermans vraagt risico-inschatting te herzien
- M.H. stak vrouw in brand voor kinderen
- M.H. kreeg verlengd penitentiair verlof ondanks geweld
- Minister Verlinden wil enkelband op zelfde adres verbieden
- Noodwet maakt verlengd penitentiair verlof onmogelijk
- Justitie benadrukt noodzaak voor meer investeringen
The brutal attack, witnessed by five of their six children, left the victim fighting for her life in hospital. This tragedy has sparked debate among Belgian lawmakers and citizens alike: how was M.H. allowed to return to his family home? And what safeguards failed to prevent this escalation?
As Minister Annelies Verlinden addresses these concerns, the focus shifts to ongoing reforms aimed at preventing similar cases. But what does this mean for Belgium’s approach to intrafamiliaal geweld going forward? The answers are critical for public safety and justice.
This case highlights several pressing issues in Belgium’s justice system. How can risk assessments fail to predict such violence? Why was the offender repeatedly granted leave despite a violent past? Key points include:
- Overcrowded prisons led to extended leave for M.H., despite his violent record.
- Positive risk evaluations and family reunification wishes influenced his release.
- New emergency laws aim to exclude serious offenders from early release and electronic monitoring at victim’s residences.
- Calls for increased investment and resources in justice and prison services are growing louder.
Belgium must now learn from this tragedy to strengthen protections against intrafamiliaal geweld. Will the new laws and increased support for justice services prevent future incidents? Public vigilance and government action will be crucial in ensuring safer homes across the country.
