Belgium, once renowned for its European diversity and tolerance, is quietly undergoing an alarming transformation, according to an in-depth investigation by Le Figaro Magazine. The report, titled “Journey in Belgiquistan,” comprehensively illustrates how Islamist influences are steadily gaining ground, posing serious threats to social cohesion and minority groups, particularly the Jewish community.

The Belgian capital Brussels clearly exemplifies this troubling trend. Neighborhoods such as Schaerbeek and Molenbeek have become scenes of parallel societies, where secular and Islamic-conservative communities coexist without meaningful interaction. While nightlife with prostitution and neon lights flourishes in Aarschot Street, nearby neighborhoods have become fully “halalized,” featuring stores and institutions strictly adhering to Islamic norms.

Testimony from former social worker Peter vividly demonstrates local authorities’ failure to effectively address extremist groups such as Sharia4Belgium, led by Fouad Belkacem. According to Peter, local politicians ignored these issues for years, fearing loss of votes to far-right parties, ultimately exacerbating radicalization and segregation.

Activist Fadila Maaroufi highlights the increasing visibility of fundamentalist practices, such as the early veiling of girls, warning about the erosion of Belgian neutrality and democratic values under pressure from radical communities.

The situation within educational institutions is equally alarming. Educator Nadia Geerts describes troubling incidents in which students refuse lessons on subjects like the Holocaust, biology, and sex education due to religious beliefs. She herself received serious threats after expressing solidarity with Samuel Paty, the French teacher murdered for teaching about freedom of speech, highlighting intolerance and radicalization within schools.

In the United States, President Trump has taken a firm stance against radicalization and antisemitism at universities. His decisive approach compelled Columbia University, among others, to implement measures addressing antisemitism and radicalization. In stark contrast, Belgium lacks any political or social pressure on educational institutions to address similar issues.

Jewish students increasingly experience antisemitism in Belgian schools and universities. Gad Deshayes, chairman of the Union des étudiants juifs de Belgique, confirms that Jewish youths often conceal their identity to avoid harassment. He criticizes educational institutions’ inaction against antisemitic incidents and emphasizes the growing influence of radical pro-Palestinian movements like Samidoun, still active in Belgium despite bans elsewhere.

The political context further intensifies this alarming dynamic. Figures like Fouad Ahidar exploit religious and ethnic tensions for political gains. His party, Team Fouad Ahidar, secured multiple seats in recent elections, partly due to controversial stances such as refusing to fully condemn terrorist attacks by Hamas. Such political opportunism deepens societal polarization.

Recent events, such as inviting an imam to recite Quranic verses in the Brussels parliament, amplify feelings of insecurity among minorities. This incident, supported by certain political factions, sparked widespread outrage, particularly within the increasingly isolated Jewish community.

Cultural institutions and media also contribute to the problem by avoiding or censoring sensitive issues. An antisemitic column published in the popular Flemish weekly Humo, which a Ghent court ruled fell under freedom of expression, heightened feelings of vulnerability within the Jewish community.

Hanane, a young woman of Algerian descent, openly shares her experiences in an Islamic school where extremist ideologies were openly taught. She ultimately had to flee for her life after distancing herself from Islam, underscoring the deep penetration of radicalization and intolerance in families and educational institutions.

A detective from the Walloon judicial police reports deteriorating conditions in certain Brussels neighborhoods, where even police and politicians hesitate to patrol during Ramadan, allowing radical groups to expand their influence unopposed.

The cultural sector similarly faces growing polarization and intolerance. At the Magritte Film Awards, a manifesto was read exclusively criticizing Israel, without mentioning Hamas’ victims, again causing deep concern within the Jewish community.

Former senator and researcher Alain Destexhe emphasizes that Belgium’s lack of clear and effective policies against radicalism and antisemitism undermines its democratic foundations. He calls for strong action against hatred and intolerance, warning that the existence of a diverse and free society is at stake.

The report from Le Figaro Magazine also reveals how public and educational institutions frequently capitulate to pressure from radical groups, fostering a climate of self-censorship and fear. The political voice of an increasingly silent majority is effectively silenced by politicians fearful of electoral consequences, worsening the situation daily.

This comprehensive analysis compellingly demonstrates Belgium’s urgent need to effectively combat radicalization. Without decisive policies and clear boundaries against extremism, social cohesion remains under serious threat. Only consistent action can guarantee the safety and freedom of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as the Jewish community.

Conclusion: The urgency of a clear, courageous political and societal response to radicalization cannot be overstated. Only through proactive and consistent action can Belgium uphold its values of tolerance and diversity, ensuring that the Jewish community and other minorities continue to live in safety and freedom.

Source: Le Figaro Magazine, March 21, 2025