Belgium steps up border checks to combat illegal and secondary migration
Intensified police inspections and new screening measures target highways, public transport, and airports as Belgium cracks down on unauthorized migration flows
Belgium has introduced a series of stepped-up measures to address concerns over illegal migration and secondary migration flows. Police units have increased inspections at highway parking areas, particularly along routes frequently used by migrants, such as the corridor between Dunkirk and De Panne. This approach is meant to curtail unauthorized movement across Belgium, with special attention on key transport arteries that are commonly used for transit.
These efforts extend beyond roads, now covering international bus routes and selected train services that face mandatory checks. The authorities also announced enhanced migration screening for flights arriving from countries with high migration pressure, a policy that for the first time is being applied to internal Schengen flights as well. The European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, continues to support Belgian national enforcement with an active operational presence across these sectors.
Recent debates surrounding airport control measures have stirred significant controversy, culminating in the resignation of the head of aviation police. Both federal and local officials have issued statements addressing these developments, reaffirming their commitment to robust border management while promising to review protocols to ensure both security and compliance with European standards.
