Thousands of people walked the streets of Brussels this Sunday (12/05/2021) in protest against the measures to contain the coronavirus and the possible mandatory vaccination.
The demonstration began near the North Station of the Belgian capital and advanced to the European quarter, where some 8,000 people, according to police figures, gathered with posters alluding to their “freedoms” and against the “dictatorship of stigmatization. “of the unvaccinated.
The demonstration was surrounded by high precautions and vigilance after a similar protest two weeks ago, although of 35,000 people, left more than 40 detainees, three injured and numerous material damages.
According to the DPA news agency, the police used water cannons and tear gas against the protesters. A group of youths had previously attacked the security forces with projectiles and fireworks.
Protesters launch fireworks at police during protest in Brussels, Belgium (12.05.2021)
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The participants in the march consider the digital certificate, necessary in Belgium to access bars, restaurants and some leisure events, “contrary to fundamental rights” and “discriminatory”, since they affirm that “the virus is not under control, but the population does ”, according to statements collected by the Belgian newspaper The evening.
Also, some point out that they are not against vaccines, but against the possible obligation to receive them, a debate on which no decision has yet been taken in Belgium. Only health personnel will have to follow this imposition as of January 2022.
It will also be mandatory for firefighters, who denounce that a fifth of their Brussels fleet (about 200 people) could not work if they are required to present this certificate and that is why they joined the protests this Sunday.
efe / dpa / ap / rr
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