The New Belgian coalition agreement: a justice system with victims put first

A future where victims come first

With these reforms, the Belgian government acknowledges that victims require not only legal assistance but also psychological and financial support. By giving them a central role, the Justice system aims to remove many of the obstacles that victims face today.

The coalation agreement shows a clear ambition: a legal system that no longer treats victims as an afterthought but actively helps and protects them. This will be a crucial step toward a more humane and just policy. However, it is important to note that these are proposed intentions and measures. Their effectiveness will depend on implementation and policy decisions throughout the legislative term.

Accessibility and legal support

To give victims more control over their cases, they will automatically receive the status of a “injured person”. This means they will be kept informed of case developments by default unless they choose to opt out.

Additionally, official Justice Department letters will be rewritten in simpler language, ensuring that victims without legal knowledge can better understand their rights. Victims will also have easier access to their criminal case files and can request a free digital copy, which must be provided within one month.

A key improvement will be the expansion of legal assistance. Victims of serious violent crimes or sexual offenses will now receive free legal support, both before and during questioning. A permanent assistance system will ensure specialized help is available 24/7. Additionally, all courthouses will be equipped with specially designated victim support rooms, creating a safe environment for victims and facilitating the work of victim support services.

Improved communication and protection

In many cases, victims receive information about their cases late or through the media. The government aims to prevent this by informing them as soon as possible, before any public communication by Justice and its spokespersons. The procedures surrounding the release of suspects or convicted offenders will also be revised to ensure that victims are not caught off guard by unexpected releases.

Protecting victims’ privacy and sensitive information will be a priority. Contact details will now be stored in a separate, secure file accessible only to authorized institutions such as the police and the prosecutor’s office. Additionally, abusive images will no longer be automatically added to case files to prevent victims or suspects from being confronted with them.

Stricter approach to sexual abuse and human trafficking

The government will significantly strengthen efforts to combat sexual abuse, both online and offline. Additional resources will be allocated for specialized investigators and advanced technologies to track and block abusive images. Collaboration with European institutions will also be reinforced to combat the spread of child abuse material more effectively.

The fight against human trafficking will also be intensified. Investigating judges and reference magistrates will receive specialized training, and funding for dedicated shelters will be increased.

Higher compensation and psychological support

To provide better financial support for victims, the government will explore increasing compensation for moral damages. The compensation payment process will also be improved: the state aims to advance payments and later recover the costs from the perpetrator or their insurer.

Psychological support will also become a right for victims. Similar to material compensation, the government will be able to reclaim therapy costs from the perpetrator. This ensures that victims receive the necessary help quickly without financial barriers.

Additionally, Sexual Violence Care Centers will be expanded and structurally funded so that victims across the country can access specialized care and support.

Furthermore, laws regarding professional confidentiality will be adjusted to better protect victims of sexual or domestic violence. Care providers will have more flexibility to share information in high-risk situations without being hindered by confidentiality rules.

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