Belgium considers new military-trained security force

Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken has proposed the creation of a new mobile security unit, which he has referred to as ‘gendarmerie 2.0’. The proposal aims to establish a specialized force that would receive military training to assist civilian police during periods of extreme violence, such as the recent protests in Brussels and Liege.

The proposed unit would operate under the authority of the Ministry of the Interior for public order, but could fall under the Ministry of Defence during geopolitical conflicts. The Belgian military union ACMP-CGPM has expressed support for the plan, noting that modern security threats require stronger coordination between agencies.

The initiative has met with opposition from local leaders. Brussels Mayor Philippe Close criticized the proposal, calling it ‘nonsense’ and arguing that the government should focus on increasing the number of existing police officers rather than inventing new administrative structures. The Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that discussions regarding enhanced cooperation between police and military units are ongoing.