Belgium’s Justice Minister Unveils “Leverage Plan” to Address Justice System Crisis
Justice minister Annelies Verlinden has introduced a “leverage plan” to alleviate urgent challenges within the Belgian justice system. The initiative includes provisions for enhanced seniority recognition, meal vouchers, a teleworking allowance, and increased bilingualism premiums for justice personnel, reports 24brussels.
Growing dissatisfaction among justice staff has escalated following the federal government’s proposal last spring to reduce magistrates’ pensions. This reform has been perceived as a tipping point in an already strained sector grappling with inadequate infrastructure, staffing shortages, and diminishing appeal for legal careers.
In recent weeks, Verlinden has held discussions with sector representatives across four thematic working groups, culminating in the action plan. “That does not take away the urgency of the structural reforms and investments, but it does form a lever that can already provide oxygen and perspective,” she stated.
The proposed plan does not directly address pension reforms, which remain under the jurisdiction of N-VA Deputy Prime Minister Jan Jambon. Instead, it centers on improving working conditions, enhancing infrastructure, and ensuring staff safety within the justice system.
“The justice system itself must not give reason to weaken confidence in its functioning and justice,” said Verlinden.
Key elements of the plan comprise meal vouchers, a teleworking allowance, and augmented bilingualism premiums. Furthermore, updates to seniority rules will permit trainee magistrates to transfer their total seniority, previously capped at two years. A comparative study of remuneration within the sector is also in the pipeline.
Verlinden affirmed that financing for the plan is secured through the coalition agreement and the government’s Easter budget agreement. While acknowledging the sector’s discontent, she emphasized the importance of service continuity, asserting, “Where we ask the citizens to trust justice, the justice system itself must not give reason to weaken confidence in its functioning and justice.”
