Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has officially recognised unlawful adoptions on behalf of the Belgian Government, in a statement to the Chamber.
In June 2022, the Chamber passed a resolution, initiated by MP Michel De Maegd (MR), acknowledging the occurrence of illegal adoptions in Belgium. The resolution aimed to grant victims legal status and inaugurate a formal investigation into the matter.
This resolution called for an administrative investigation into instances of illegal adoption dating back to the mid-20th century. Most cases reportedly involve children from Guatemala, Chile, Sri Lanka and India.
Over the past two years, several steps have been taken under Justice Ministers Vincent Van Quickenborne and Paul van Tigchelt, De Croo noted. He also highlighted that Foreign Affairs Minister Hadja Lahbib has urged consular posts worldwide to assist those affected.
De Croo questioned whether the resolution's investigation needed to be concluded before recognising that illegal adoptions occurred in Belgium. "We find clear evidence that problematic or illegal adoptions took place in Belgium from the 1950s until today," he stated. He added that their investigation would determine the next steps.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to MP Yngvild Ingels, herself a victim of illegal adoption. "The injustice inflicted on you and your fellow sufferers is substantial," he said. He declared all adoption archives must be opened, in hopes that acknowledgement can aid victims in finding their birth parents.
Prior to the official recognition, De Croo met with victims and representative associations at the Senate.
