Belgium faces severe criticism for neglecting the rights and dignity of asylum seekers, as detailed in Amnesty International’s report, “Unhoused and Unheard.” The report highlights the plight of thousands left homeless due to the government’s refusal to provide adequate reception facilities, in stark violation of international and EU laws. Discrimination against racialized single men is a key concern, with over 2,500 people currently awaiting accommodation.
Since the surge in asylum applications following the Covid-19 pandemic, Belgian authorities have failed to adapt their reception system, primarily denying assistance to racialized men. Court orders demanding reception have been issued over 12,000 times, yet the government has repeatedly ignored these binding decisions, setting a dangerous precedent.
In light of the new government’s commitment to a stricter migration policy, Amnesty International warns that this approach exacerbates the crisis for asylum seekers. “Belgium’s failure to provide reception is not due to a lack of resources but a lack of political will,” said Eva Davidova of Amnesty International Belgium.
The report, compiled through interviews with homeless asylum seekers and civil society representatives, reveals harrowing living conditions. Asylum seekers often end up on the streets or in dilapidated squats, facing severe barriers accessing essential healthcare services. Sayed, an Afghan asylum seeker, recounted the degradation of conditions in the Palais des droits squat, stating, “Pee was coming up to the place where you were sleeping.”
Baraa, a Palestinian who fled Gaza, yearning for stability and basic rights, stressed, “I just need to survive. We had a life back in Gaza, but we just lacked the security and the safety there.” The repercussions of homelessness are profound, affecting future opportunities and access to education or employment.
Amnesty International asserts that urgent action is needed to rectify this crisis, urging the Belgian government to increase reception facilities and ensure adequate healthcare for all asylum seekers. They also call for support for civil society organisations grappling with the fallout of governmental inaction. The European Commission is encouraged to hold Belgium accountable under EU regulations to safeguard human rights. This ongoing situation signifies a crucial test of Belgium’s and the EU’s dedication to upholding fundamental human rights, demanding immediate resolution.
Amnesty International’s report highlights Belgium’s ongoing failure to accommodate asylum seekers, resulting in homelessness and violations of their rights. Discrimination against racialized men and neglect of court orders underscore the crisis. The new government’s stringent migration policy threatens to worsen conditions. Urgent action by the government and the EU is needed to uphold human rights and provide adequate support.
The situation facing asylum seekers in Belgium has escalated into a human rights crisis as government inaction leaves thousands homeless and exposed to severe hardships. Despite multiple court orders to provide reception, the authorities continue to overlook their obligations, particularly affecting marginalized groups. Urgent interventions from both the Belgian government and the EU are imperative to ensure compliance with human rights laws, restore dignity, and provide essential support for those seeking refuge.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
