NGOs express concern over 'repression against pro-Palestinian movement in Belgium'
Several NGOs have expressed their concern about what they call the "repression against the pro-Palestinian movement in Belgium". Amnesty International Belgium, the Human Rights League, Greenpeace, Kif Kif and trade union organisations call for vigilance and respect for human rights.
According to the organisations, freedom of expression is curtailed for people wearing symbols of support for Palestine.
"Administrative fines are imposed following pro-Palestinian demonstrations. And there are repressive measures against participants in the occupation of university buildings," they said in a joint press release on Friday, referring in part to the eviction and summons of the occupiers of the Université libre de Bruxelles building in Brussels.
'Excessive pressure'
The Ligue des droits humains and Kif Kif say they have received testimonies about "excessive pressure" exerted by police on people wearing symbols of support for Palestine such as the Palestinian flag, especially in Antwerp and Brussels.
"The simple fact of wearing a Palestinian flag falls under freedom of expression. It does not in itself constitute a threat to public order, nor an incitement to violence or hatred that could justify a ban," they said.
"Wearing a Palestinian flag falls under freedom of expression"
According to the NGOs, the measures "send a very worrying message about the right to protest in Belgium". They say they are deeply concerned about this "and call on the relevant authorities to do everything possible to protect this fundamental right, a few weeks before the municipal elections".
A demonstration in Brussels to show solidarity with the Palestinian people, March 2024 © BELGA PHOTO HATIM KAGHAT
Related news
