Belgium has allowed police to raid private homes in search of undocumented migrants and the development has sparked warnings of a legal and political backlash. Critics argue that the move could bring US-style immigration enforcement to Europe.
The controversial legislation was approved by parliament on November 6 and it allows authorities to forcibly enter homes, including those belonging to people sheltering undocumented migrants, to carry out deportation orders.
Under the new rules, police can enter properties between 5 am and 9 pm after obtaining authorisation from an investigating judge. The law is expected to take effect on March 1, 2027.
However, the powers are restricted to individuals who have ignored enforceable removal orders, refused to cooperate and are considered threats to public order or national security.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s government argues the measure will help enforce deportations and improve public safety.
How could the law backfire?
Human rights organisations warn that the raids could frighten families, discourage people from sheltering migrants and undermine constitutional protections against unlawful intrusion into homes.
Amnesty International has criticised the legislation as a “law of fear”, arguing that children could be traumatised by police entering their homes.
Legal experts have also questioned the vague definition of threats to public order and the absence of an effective appeal mechanism against search authorisations.
The legislation could face challenges before Belgium’s Constitutional Court, potentially complicating the government’s deportation plans.
Opposition has already spilled onto the streets, with around 3,000 demonstrators forming a human chain around Brussels’ Palace of Justice ahead of the vote.
Critics also fear the measure could encourage other European countries to introduce similar powers.
Meanwhile, supporters insist the law includes judicial safeguards and does not authorise indiscriminate raids against all undocumented migrants.
