Local and federal authorities were galvanised towards the end of summer to step up efforts to make the city safer after locals for years have been sounding the alarm on what they see as unsafe areas. But as many predicted, the interventions were short-lived whilst problems persist.
In response to a feeling of insecurity in the city, dozens of neighbourhood committees known as "The 40 Committees" were set up to denounce the fact that similar problems regarding overt drug use, aggression and violent incidents. They urged politicians to take action.
It appeared these cries for help were being listened to. One week later, Brussels Minister-President Rudi Vervoort held a meeting with delegates from various local community groups. While no firm commitments were made at the meeting, the groups said they were "satisfied with the consultation" and the promise "to keep the dialogue alive."
A plan was rolled out, for example, to address insecurity at Midi including setting up a police zone inside the station, and STIB began the Sublink project, aimed at rehabilitating homeless people and drug addicts living in subway stations.
However, almost four months on, hardly any steps have been taken in terms of security in other Brussels neighbourhoods and concrete actions on a regional level still remain absent, the "40 Committees" have argued.
"Nothing has changed. This is frustrating, we had hoped for some kind of impetus for targeted action," Eric Vandezande of the Yser-Sainctelette neighbourhood committee told Bruzz. "But those who take the subway still find that the situation has often gotten worse."
Second meeting
While Vandezande recognises the demands the group calls for are hefty, a recent survey by the group, referred to as the barometer, showcase that the situation is still extremely dire.
Brussels Prime Minister Rudi Vervoort said he understands the concerns and invited the group back to his office on 5 February to discuss the matter again. At the very least, we then hope for a signal that work is being done on a phased plan to take action," Vandezande said.
However, Vervoort has argued that this is an issue that "requires an approach on all fronts", from tackling the international drug trade to waiting lists at rehab clinics. "And that unfortunately doesn't just happen overnight". This also requires resources, but the Brussels Region is tight on funds.
