Belgium Court Rules Colonial Child Kidnappings Constitute Crimes Against Humanity

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A landmark decision by Belgium's court of appeal has deemed the historic kidnapping of mixed-race children during the country's colonial rule in central Africa a crime against humanity. This ruling, delivered last month, could set a precedent for reparations and broader justice measures for the victims and their families.

The case was initiated by five women who were forcibly removed from their African mothers in the Belgian Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi between 1948 and 1953. Each plaintiff has been awarded €50,000 in damages. The court identified the systematic practice of taking these children, labeled as “métis,” due to their mixed heritage, as a violation that affected thousands who endured separation from their families.

François Milliex, president of the Association of Métis of Belgium, expressed hope that this decision will encourage others to seek financial compensation for their past suffering. Many métis continue to grapple with loss of identity and trauma stemming from their experiences.

Despite Belgium’s previous apology in 2019 and efforts to assist victims in tracing their family histories, the government has resisted calls for comprehensive financial reparations, unlike other countries that have faced similar issues. Legal experts believe that while the recent ruling is historic, the path to securing reparations may require substantial advocacy.

The Belgian government has yet to finalize its response to the ruling, with discussions around potential appeals still ongoing. Meanwhile, civil society groups are pushing for recognition of the injustices faced by these victims and advocating for remembrance of this overlooked chapter in Belgium's colonial history.

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