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You are here: Home Moving to Country Facts Crime and the legal system in Belgium

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17/08/2011Crime and the legal system in Belgium

Crime and the legal system in Belgium Can you pinpoint a pick pocket? Know the legal system of Belgium, including common crimes and where to be most cautious.

Belgium is relatively safe with low rates of violence.  

The most common crimes that occur are thefts. Purse snatching and pick pocketing is not a rare thing, especially in the big cities of Belgium. Thieves seem to hide in places like subways, so be careful of the kind of transportation you use. 

As it is the century of technologies, expensive pieces of technology such as iPods or iPhones are treasured and desired by the thieves.  Car thefts are growing in numbers, especially in big cities like Brussels. 

Know the rules

Whether you are going to live in Belgium or just visit it, abide by its laws the moment you set foot on ground. Their laws may be different from those in your home country, so it is essential that you know what is legal and what is illegal. 

For example: Are pirated products banned in your country? In Belgium they might not be illegal. On the other hand, penalties for drugs are severe, and the prison sentences for possession of narcotics can be long. 


In case of emergency or violence

The Emergency number in Belgium is 101 for police support. If there are any other emergencies, please call 112. If your passport has been stolen report to the local police immediately and fill in a police report, explaining how and where it happened.

If you are a victim of violence or assault, find medical care and report to the police. The local authorities will help you comprehend the criminal justice process and, if needed, help to find a lawyer. 

Commission for victims can be provided by the Belgian ‘commission for financial assistance to victims of intentional acts of violence’ which will compensate under the circumstances.

Lastly, terrorist incidents are very rare in Belgium. The laws and the cooperation with the neighbouring countries form a strong defence system against terrorism. 

On the other hand protests take place occasionally for all sorts of events, and sometimes even quiet demonstrations can become violent and chaotic. So it is best to avoid them.

Teodora Todorova / Expatica

Sources:  Quest- Property & Lifestyle Magazine;  Google


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