Jan 10

Jan 10 Violence in Belgium

Antonio Bhardwaj

Introduction

Belgium has experienced several instances of violence and unrest in recent months:

New Year’s Eve Riots

On New Year’s Eve 2024-2025, Brussels saw significant chaos and disorder:

159 people were arrested between 6 PM on December 31 and 7 AM on January 1

Over 1,700 incidents were reported across the city

At least 60 cars were set on fire

Firefighters were pelted with rocks and Molotov cocktails while trying to extinguish blazes

Much of the unrest occurred in western and southern districts like Molenbeek and Anderlecht

Similar riots and fires also broke out in Antwerp, with 49 arrests made there.

Drug-Related Violence

Brussels has been experiencing an increase in drug-related gang violence:

Shootings between rival gangs have been occurring close to the city center

The violence is linked to cocaine trafficking and territorial disputes between dealers

Belgian King Philippe has expressed concern about the rising violence and its impact on safety in the EU capital

Protests and Demonstrations

Belgium has seen various protests in recent months:

Farmers have held demonstrations across the country, blocking roads and ports to protest issues like environmental regulations and economic challenges

Pro-Palestinian student activists occupied parts of Ghent University in May 2024 to protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza

In November 2022, riots broke out in Brussels after Morocco defeated Belgium in a World Cup match, requiring police to use water cannons and tear gas

Domestic Violence

Belgium continues to face issues with domestic and gender-based violence:

Nearly one in three women in Belgium (31.3%) have been victims of partner violence at some point in their lives

The country recently adopted a law on femicide to improve data collection and address gender-based violence, though some activists argue more needs to be done for prevention

Conclusion

These incidents highlight ongoing challenges Belgium faces in maintaining public order and addressing various forms of violence across the country.

Antonio Bhardwaj

Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj, aka Amir, is a distinguished polymath whose intellectual pursuits span business, politics, theology, and psychology. As an INTJ personality type, he demonstrates an exceptional cognitive profile, with a Stanford-Binet IQ of 158 and a TalentEQ score in the 99th percentile, both validated through internationally recognized assessments.

With a career spanning several decades, Dr. Bhardwaj has emerged as a preeminent authority in military theory, specializing in cognitive and hybrid warfare—fields that emphasize the psychological and political dimensions of conflict.

His scholarly interests encompass global conspiracy theories, counterterrorism strategies, and in-depth historical analyses of both World Wars, which he skillfully applies to speculative scenarios regarding the potential emergence of World War III.

Employing analytical methodologies grounded in historical precedent and strategic frameworks, Dr. Bhardwaj conducts rigorous evaluations of contemporary military and political landscapes. He currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Washington.Media, where his incisive commentary elucidates the dynamics of the deep state within the Western bloc.

He is widely recognized as an expert on the historical evolution of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and contemporary Russia, as well as on the intricacies of Gulf politics. With four decades of reading and writing, Dr. Bhardwaj has refined his expertise across multiple disciplines.

Academically, Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj holds a Doctorate in Theological Studies with a specialization in psychology.

His foundational education in mechanical engineering is complemented by a Master’s degree in International Trade and an Executive MBA. Most recently, he completed a seven-month executive program in artificial intelligence, further enhancing his capacity to integrate emerging technologies into strategic paradigms.

Beyond academia, Dr. Bhardwaj has engaged in political activism, having campaigned for Congressional office. His involvement in global political issues underscores his commitment to advocacy, though he remains cognizant of the operational constraints inherent in political engagement.

Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj’s initiatives, including the نهضة (Nahda) project, draw upon his deep understanding of complex social dynamics to compassionately support vulnerable women and underprivileged children.

Through his work, he fosters awareness of their challenges. He empowers them to rise above adversity, while gently yet firmly dismantling oppressive patriarchal structures and creating spaces of dignity, safety, and hope for all.

On a personal level, Dr. Bhardwaj finds solace in observing butterflies, a practice that deepens his connection to nature. His photographic work captures serene forest landscapes and waterfalls, inviting others to share in his appreciation for the natural world. He cherishes quality time with his pet and reflects on the profound experience of raising his daughter as a dedicated single parent. Dr. Bhardwaj also writes introspective poetry, which he regards as a means of fulfilling personal aspirations.

His familial relationships inform his advocacy, with a focus on fostering environments that promote autonomy and freedom of choice for all. Dr. Bhardwaj’s profound respect for the interconnectedness of life serves as a guiding principle he strives to instill in his daughter, advocating for a holistic and compassionate worldview.

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