Belgium reports an increase in violence and hate speech against the LGBTI community in 2025, Belga reported, citing a report by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Association, BTA reported.
LGBTI organizations report an increase in homophobic and transphobic attacks compared to previous years. Among the incidents are ambushes organized through dating apps, attacks in public places, vandalism against community centers, as well as increased harassment in the workplace and online.
In 2025, courts in Belgium handed down effective sentences in cases related to the so-called "traps" on dating apps. In Leuven, four minors were arrested on suspicion of attempting to lure and assault two victims, one of whom was seriously injured.
Community centres have also been targeted, including repeated acts of vandalism in the city of Verviers. In Brussels, a Georgian man and his transgender friend were attacked on a bus.
Research shows a deterioration in attitudes among young people. Students in Flanders aged 16-18 are significantly less tolerant of gays and lesbians compared to 2018. One in five say that violence against gays can be acceptable.
Online threats have also been on the rise.
Despite the rise in violence, the report says Belgium continues to have one of the strongest legal frameworks for the protection of LGBTI people in Europe. At the same time, it warns that the country reflects a broader Western European trend in which legislative progress coexists with growing hostility and violence.