Belgium is debating a ban on the sale of fireworks following a series of injuries and disturbances on New Year’s Eve.
While Flemish mayors advocate for a Europe-wide prohibition, animal rights activists argue that a nationwide ban in Belgium should take precedence.
Several Belgian municipalities have already implemented local restrictions on fireworks sales. According to the Association of Flemish Cities and Municipalities (VVSG), four out of five Flemish mayors support a national moratorium.
In Brussels, where a local ban on pyrotechnics was in effect, flares and firecrackers were still set off in the city center. The Belgian capital experienced 159 arrests on New Year’s Eve, with police responding to over 1,700 incidents.
VVSG argues that a European ban would prevent individuals from bypassing national restrictions by purchasing fireworks in neighboring countries.
VVSG has reached out to Belgian officials and plans to escalate its efforts by collaborating with organizations in neighboring countries and larger EU institutions such as the European Parliament. The decision now lies with the Belgian government, as the debate over fireworks safety and regulation continues.
