Recent police raids in Antwerp targeting mohels—ritual circumcisers—have sparked intense debate about religious freedom in Belgium. On 14 May, the Antwerp police investigated circumcisions performed by men without formal medical training, raising questions about the balance between public health and religious rights. This issue remains highly sensitive in Belgium’s multicultural landscape, especially for its Jewish community.
- EJA condemns police raids on mohels
- Calls EU to reaffirm religious freedom
- Warns raids threaten Jewish religious rights
- Belgian probe targets non-medical circumcisions
- Jewish community highlights mohel medical training
- Doctors defend circumcision’s medical benefits
In response, the European Jewish Association (EJA) sent a letter urging EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to protecting religious freedoms. The letter, dated 2025-07-16 16:03:00, condemns the police actions as violations of fundamental rights and calls for dialogue with Belgian authorities to prevent future prosecutions of Jewish religious practices.
How can Belgium reconcile legal concerns with respect for long-standing religious traditions? And what does this mean for the future of religious rights in Europe? The Fast Answer below offers clarity for Belgian readers.
These events highlight a complex intersection of law, religion, and community rights. Should religious rituals be exempt from medical regulations? The EJA and Jewish doctors emphasize that:
- Mohels are trained in both ritual and medical aspects of circumcision.
- Criminalizing these practices threatens religious freedom and European values.
- The investigation was prompted by concerns over non-medical circumcisions but risks stigmatizing Jewish customs.
Looking ahead, ongoing dialogue between EU officials, Belgian authorities, and religious communities is essential. Will Belgium lead by example in safeguarding religious freedoms while ensuring safety? The coming months will be crucial for setting precedents that respect both tradition and law.
