Belgium: Further protests likely in central Brussels after violence Dec. 5

Event

Further large protests are possible in Brussels in the coming days after thousands of activists demonstrated Dec. 5 against COVID-19 restrictions. The gathering prompted significant disruptions, and police resorted to water cannon and tear gas to disperse around 100 protesters who threw missiles and firecrackers at police near the European Commission.

Police will implement security measures around any further demonstrations and associated movement restrictions, including road closures, that could cause disruptions to traffic, public transport, and local business activity. While the vast majority of related demonstrations are peaceful, the violence on Dec. 5 suggests that a hard core of extremists could infiltrate further gatherings will the intention of provoking clashes. While bystanders are unlikely to be targeted in such violence, they would face a significant incidental threat.

Advice

Exercise caution in central Brussels in the coming days and avoid all protests as a precaution. Check route status and allow additional time to reach destinations in central Brussels during any demonstrations.