Belgium: Thousands gather in Brussels for solidarity protests near Place Poelaert June 7

Event

A large solidarity protest was reported near Brussels' Place Poelaert on Sunday, June 7, over the police-related death of George Floyd and the wider Black Lives Matter movement. While the main demonstration was mostly peaceful, there have been reports of police utilizing water cannons and tear gas at around 100 protesters on Chaussee d'Ixelles during evening hours (local time) in response to rocks and bottles being thrown at police officers. Shops in the area have reportedly been looted. There have so far been no reports of injuries or arrests related to the unrest.

Further protests and unrest are likely in the area in the near term.

Context

George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on May 25. The four arresting police officers were subsequently fired, and one has since been charged with murder. Black Lives Matter (BLM) supporters gathered on May 26 to denounce the death and actions of the police officers. Clashes ensued between protesters and riot police; with demonstrators throwing bricks and projectiles at police and police property, and police responding with tear gas and rubber bullets as they attempted to disperse the crowds. Protests have since spread to a number of cities across the US, with solidarity protests taking place throughout the world.

Advice

Individuals in Brussels are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.