Belgium’s new migration law, approved by the federal parliament on Friday morning, expands police powers to enforce deportation orders against certain foreign nationals. The legislation allows law‑enforcement officers to enter private homes of individuals who have been denied asylum, ignored removal orders, or are deemed a threat to public order or national security. Each search must be authorized by a judge and can only take place between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. in the presence of immigration officials. The bill was passed by a majority after a debate that lasted through the night. It is part of a broader effort by Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s right‑wing coalition to curb the flow of migrants into Belgium and increase the number of deportations. The government argues that the measures are necessary to enforce existing deportation orders and maintain public safety. Human‑rights organisations and legal experts have criticised the new provisions. Amnesty International urged Belgian lawmakers to reject the bill, warning that it could also affect people who assist undocumented migrants. The organisation highlighted the risk that the expanded police powers could undermine constitutional guarantees and the right to privacy. Protests erupted in Brussels and across the country in response to the legislation. On Wednesday evening, roughly 3,000 demonstrators formed a human chain around the Palace of Justice in Brussels. Over 50 other rallies and gatherings were organised nationwide. The demonstrations reflected widespread opposition to the new rules. In a separate development, Prime Minister De Wever resigned after failing to secure a budget agreement, submitting his resignation to King Philippe. The resignation came amid ongoing political tensions, though it is not directly linked to the migration bill. The new law will apply only to those foreigners who have been denied asylum, ignored removal orders, or are considered a threat. Police searches will require judicial approval and must be conducted within the specified early‑morning window. The legislation has sparked debate over the balance between immigration control and civil liberties in Belgium.
Article source: Rzeczpospolita | Image credit: Rzeczpospolita