Brussels police zones to merge into single force

The Belgian Chamber of Representatives has given the green light to a significant reform: the merger of the six distinct police zones within the Brussels-Capital Region into a single, unified force. This decision, long advocated by Flemish parties and enshrined in the federal government's agreement, is set to take effect on January 1, 2028.

The current fragmentation of policing across Brussels has been a persistent source of inefficiency and confusion, particularly when criminal activities transcend municipal boundaries. The new legislation, spearheaded by Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, establishes a singular command structure for the entire region. To ensure continued local presence, a minimum of one community police officer will be assigned for every 2,000 inhabitants.

While the reform passed with support from the majority, Anders, and Ecolo-Groen, it faced opposition from PS, PVDA, and DéFI, with Vlaams Belang abstaining. The new framework grants municipalities a voice through the police college, replacing the former police councils. An alarm bell procedure is also introduced, allowing any mayor to request the suspension of specific decisions from the governor.

The government is backing this transition with €65 million to facilitate the merger. Minister Quintin is also working on revising the funding norms for local police zones to direct more resources to larger cities. Furthermore, financial incentives will be offered for voluntary police zone mergers elsewhere in the country, aiming to reduce the national total from 180 to around 60 zones.