Rising Violence Against Election Candidates Sparks Concern in Belgium

BELGIUM 24- The increasing intensity of violence against election candidates has left Larbi Qasimi, a young resident of Mons, in shock. As a registered electoral candidate in Mons, Qasimi’s social networks became a platform for racist and Islamophobic insults after posting his campaign photos on Facebook.

The Harsh Reality of Online Abuse

The offensive comments not only highlighted Qasimi’s true values but also threatened to link his name to the 9/11 incident. Qasimi expressed his grief, stating, “It’s so sad to face so much hate in 2024. It breaks my heart to see my loved ones suffer because of these messages.”

A Growing Problem in Belgian Politics

Qasimi’s experience is not an isolated incident. Defense Minister Ludivine Dedandre recently revealed that she was a victim of harassment, and the municipality of Engen launched a “strike for democracy” to condemn the violence directed against them last February.

The Impact of Violence on Politicians

Violence against politicians is not a new phenomenon, but it is becoming increasingly evident on social media. According to Benjamin Byrd, a political scientist, violence is not limited to physical threats but also includes symbolic violence that can destabilize elected officials.

Statistics Reveal the Extent of the Problem

A recent study found that more than 483 local officials face physical and moral exhaustion, reflecting the impact of this phenomenon on their commitment to political work. Research indicates that the local level is the most affected, as candidates and elected officials face direct harassment, including car jacking and stone pelting, prompting some of them to resign in search of a quieter life.

International Condemnation

In October 2023, the Council of Europe condemned violence against local officials, deeming it a threat to democracy. The survey indicates that 67% of local political figures have been victims of insults, 23% of online harassment, and 18% of violence, reflecting the scale of the problem and its impact on the local political scene.