Rights at the Border: Addressing the Gaps in Belgium's Monitoring Mechanism
A new BIRMM Policy Brief by Monique Harvison examines Belgium’s implementation of the independent fundamental rights monitoring mechanism (FRMM) required under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.
Since the Pact entered into full application on 12 June 2026, new border procedures have been introduced for people arriving without permission to enter, including screening and accelerated border asylum procedures. These new powers require effective safeguards to ensure compliance with EU and international fundamental rights standards. The policy brief argues that Belgium is currently lagging behind other EU Member States in establishing the required monitoring mechanism. While responsibility has been assigned to the Federal Ombudsman, in coordination with bodies such as Committee P and Myria, important legal, institutional and financial questions remain unresolved. The brief highlights several key implementation gaps, including the need for stronger monitoring of border procedures, proactive site visits, formal cooperation between responsible agencies, safeguards for vulnerable groups and adequate funding. It concludes with recommendations aimed at ensuring that Belgium develops a strong, independent and effective fundamental rights monitoring mechanism.