Six out of ten Belgians say they fear the war in Ukraine

The impact of the war in Ukraine is very palpable among the Belgian population. The conflict taking place 1.500 kilometres away is indeed worrying a large majority of Belgians, shows a survey by French-language newspaper Le Soir. Three quarters of the respondents do not intend to host Ukrainians in their homes.

Only 8 percent of respondents are not afraid at all, the poll shows. This means that 90 percent feel at least a little worried, with 60 percent ranging from fairly to very fearful. This does not necessarily indicate we are collectively imagining the worst case scenario – a nuclear war – but the poll does show a great deal of concern about the conflict spreading throughout Europe or breaking out on a global scale, writes Le Soir.

In light of this, 46 percent of respondents believe that sanctions against Russia are not sufficient for the time being. They also support sending arms to support Ukrainian fighters. However, this support does not mean respondents want the Belgian military to be present on the ground.

Concerning Ukrainian refugees, the survey reveals strong support for the reception arrangements made by Belgian and European authorities. These measures include protection, living wages, health care and work permits. When asked whether they would be prepared to welcome Ukrainians into their homes, however, 76 percent of respondents said no.

Photo © Belga/AFP: Anti-war protesters hold placards and a Ukranian flag during a demonstration against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, in front of the NATO headquarters in Brussels on February 25, 2022