Belgium's parliament has approved a controversial law that will allow police to carry out home searches targeting certain undocumented migrants who have failed to comply with orders to leave the country.
The measure forms part of the broader migration policy of Prime Minister Bart De Wever's right-wing coalition government, which aims to tighten migration controls and increase deportations of individuals denied the right to remain in Belgium.
The legislation sparked strong opposition from human rights organisations and legal groups, which argue that allowing police to enter homes to enforce immigration laws risks undermining constitutional rights and privacy protections.
Around 3,000 people formed a human chain around the Palace of Justice in Brussels on Wednesday in protest, while more than 50 demonstrations and gatherings were reportedly held across the country.
The law was ultimately approved by a parliamentary majority at around 5am local time following an overnight debate.
Who can be targeted?
The measure applies only to individuals:
- Whose asylum applications have been rejected.
- Who have ignored orders to leave Belgium.
- Who are considered a threat to public security.
Searches must receive prior authorisation from an investigating judge and may only be carried out between 5am and 9am, with immigration officials present.
Rights groups voice concern
Ahead of the vote, Amnesty International urged lawmakers to reject the bill, arguing that it could also affect people who provide assistance to undocumented migrants.
The Belgian government defended the measure, saying it is necessary to enforce deportation orders against individuals considered a threat to public order or national security.
Source: ANA-MPA
