Jasmine Rayée, Sophie Schiettekatte, Dorien Surinx, Judith Vermeulen (master students, UGent), Pieter Cannoot (assistant, UGent) and Dr. Jurgen Goossens (postdoctoral researcher, UGent)
Following the Paris attacks in November 2015, the Belgian federal government issued a list of counter-terrorism measures to be implemented as a tool to combat the surge of terrorism threats. The proposals, depicted as necessary for the safety and security of the citizens, did not come as a surprise. An increase in anti-terrorism measures can be observed all over Europe and beyond, allegedly justified as part of a state’s obligation under international law to protect its citizens. However, some measures inevitably entail restrictions on fundamental rights and freedoms. Are we witnessing an unprecedented pressure on our fundamental constitutional rights? This post will analyse the effect of recent counter-terrorism measures on the right to privacy, the right to freedom and nationality in Belgium. While combating terrorism clearly constitutes a legitimate aim, it is necessary to analyze the proportionality, necessity and efficiency of some measures.