Prisoners in Belgium may soon face mandatory drug testing, according to a bill proposed by Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden (CD&V) presented to the government on Friday. Drug abuse is identified as a significant issue within the country’s prisons. In a separate initiative, Verlinden also aims to strip Belgian nationality from certain criminal ‘newcomers.’, reports 24brussels.
Statistics from the Ministry of Justice reveal that two-thirds of Belgian prisoners have used illegal substances at some point, with one in three admitting drug use while incarcerated. Following cannabis, the most prevalent drugs include heroin and illegal medications.
This ongoing issue poses serious risks. Minister Verlinden emphasized that the use and trafficking of narcotics disrupt social order in prisons, jeopardize the safety of prison staff, and incite violence. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a legal framework for conducting drug tests, either selectively based on specific indications or randomly to deter drug use. Coercion is not permitted; however, refusal to take a test will be interpreted as a positive outcome.
Should a prisoner test positive, they will be assessed by medical and psychosocial services for potential acute care and treatment, with follow-up tests scheduled. Possible penalties may be imposed for issues such as fraud or refusal to comply with testing.
Revocation of Belgian Nationality
On the same day, the government reached a consensus on altering nationality laws. Individuals convicted of serious crimes, including organized crime, homicide, or sexual offenses, could face the loss of Belgian nationality. However, this measure applies only to those who obtained citizenship within the 15 years before their offense.
The reform aims to send a decisive message, according to Verlinden. “Individuals guilty of serious crimes that threaten the foundations of our society may lose their Belgian citizenship,” she stated.
Previously established in the coalition agreement, judges will now be mandated to consider nationality revocation in cases of terrorism convictions. This ruling will automatically apply to perpetrators with dual nationality without needing the prosecutor’s request. Courts also hold the discretion to deny revocation, but must provide a clear rationale if they deem it unreasonable or disproportionate.
For convictions related to capital crimes, sexual offenses, or organized crime, judges can revoke Belgian nationality, but this applies only in specific circumstances deemed to pose a fundamental threat to society. Notably, nationality revocation will only be possible if the offender obtained it within 15 years before the crime; the previous threshold was 10 years. The statute of limitations for filing such claims is set at 15 years.
