The United States’ State Department has raised its travel advisory level for Belgium, urging American citizens to “exercise increased caution” when visiting the country over concerns related to crime, terrorism, and public unrest.
The advisory, issued by the U.S. State Department on July 23rd, moved Belgium to a “Level 2 – Exercise increased caution” designation. Under the U.S. travel advisory system, Level 2 advises travelers to remain vigilant, while Levels 3 and 4 recommend reconsidering travel or avoiding it altogether.
Belgian officials responded by defending Belgium’s security measures. Florinda Baleci, spokesperson for Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, stated that the country’s security services cooperate to “ensure the highest level of safety for everyone present on Belgian territory, including both residents and visitors.”
A significant part of the updated American warning focuses on everyday crime. The State Department notes that visitors should “stay aware of [their] surroundings,” warning that petty crime is common, particularly in tourist areas. “Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing,” the advisory states.
The warning also highlights Belgium’s continued exposure to terrorism. The country has experienced several deadly attacks in recent years, including the March 2016 bombings at Brussels Airport and the Maelbeek metro station, which killed 32 people. In the years following the attacks, three additional victims died as a result of injuries and trauma sustained during the bombings.
More recently, in October 2023, a terrorist attack in Brussels claimed the lives of two Swedish travelers, reinforcing concerns that Belgium remains a potential target for extremist violence.
In addition to security threats, the advisory points to the possibility of civil unrest, as the advisory comes after a series of recent protests in Belgium. In June, demonstrations against planned reforms to the Francophone education system escalated into clashes between protesters and police in Brussels. During the unrest, e-scooters were set ablaze, traffic signs and outdoor furniture were vandalized, and police deployed tear gas against demonstrators.
As a result, the State Department advises travelers to “avoid demonstrations and crowds, monitor local media for breaking news, be prepared to adjust trip plans, and be aware and alert at all times, especially in tourist spots and when visiting banks or ATMs.”
