Brussels Midi station faces crime and neglect

Brussels Midi station has become a focal point for urban neglect and rising crime rates in Belgium. Local mayors are actively seeking national assistance to enhance safety and manage the influx of asylum seekers in the area. The station's surroundings are characterized by gray concrete buildings and littered streets, which reflect broader governmental and urban planning issues. The high crime rate in the vicinity has led to severe consequences, including instances of criminal violence resulting in fatalities. Local authorities have expressed concerns that concentrating refugee processing centers in areas already plagued by drug-related problems exacerbates existing issues and tarnishes the public perception of these neighborhoods. The mayor of Saint-Gilles has highlighted the need for a more equitable distribution of processing centers across the country to alleviate local challenges and improve the management of asylum seekers. In response to the escalating crime, mayors are advocating for a permanent police presence at the asylum seeker center, rather than relying on sporadic measures. They have identified a suitable location for a police station and are optimistic about its establishment by the end of summer. This initiative aims to address crime more effectively and restore a sense of safety in the area. The situation at Brussels Midi station exemplifies the broader challenges faced by urban areas in Belgium, where coordination issues and resource allocation conflicts among local authorities hinder effective solutions. The ongoing dialogue between local mayors and national entities is crucial for developing strategies that can tackle these pressing urban social problems.