Both train conductors and drivers at De Lijn, MIVB/STIB, and LETEC will soon be allowed to wear body cams. This was decided by the Federal Council of Ministers. The draft legislation must still be approved by the Council of State and then by Parliament before it can take effect.

With this measure, the government hopes to reduce incidents of aggression on public transportation. The public train company NMBS/SNCB, among others, had long been calling for body cameras, but legal objections and concerns about privacy laws have stood in the way of their introduction until now. The goal is to have everything finalized by the end of this year.

Evidence in cases of aggression

Specifically, body cameras can soon be worn by drivers and staff members of the public transportation companies NMBS/SNCB, MIVB/STIB, De Lijn, and LETEC, as well as by inspectors from cities and municipalities, security guards at events, and firefighters.

That wearing bodycams can sometimes be particularly relevant is evident from an incident of aggression that occurred last Sunday evening. Several De Lijn employees and police officers were injured in a brawl on the coastal tram in De Haan. De Lijn’s ticket inspectors were conducting a ticket check when four young people without valid tickets were found; three tried to run away. Inspectors attempted to stop them, and the situation escalated.

In general, body cameras can help de-escalate incidents, and the footage can be used as evidence by both citizens and authorities in cases of aggression or, for example, allegations of inappropriate behavior.

Enhanced sense of security

“Those who protect us and serve society must themselves be protected,” says Interior Minister Bernard Quintin (MR), whose bill has been given the green light. “Expanding the use of body cameras provides an additional tool for clearly determining who is responsible for what in the event of incidents or violence.”

Jean-Luc Crucke (Les Engagées), Minister of Mobility, also points to the enhanced sense of security for passengers and staff. “Safety on public transportation is one of our priorities and a necessary condition for ensuring that everyone can travel peacefully and safely,” says the minister.

30 to 90 days of data retention

The cameras are activated when there is a risk of aggression or violence against individuals. Anyone who is being filmed must also be notified of this. The text includes safeguards regarding the protection of personal data, in accordance with European regulations. The footage is stored for a maximum of 30 to 90 days.

For firefighters, the draft also provides for assistance cameras that can be used in real time during operations. These systems enable real-time guidance of personnel during an operation, ensure the safety of personnel and third parties, and transmit images to the command post.

Former Minister of the Interior Annelies Verlinden launched a similar plan in early 2023 but was unable to move it forward due to privacy legislation. At the time, the Data Protection Authority deemed it too far-reaching to equip firefighters and paramedics with body cameras as well.