Capital punishment in Belgium

Death Penalty laws in Europe

Capital punishment in Belgium refers to the historical use and eventual abolition of the death penalty in Belgium. The practice of capital punishment has undergone significant changes over the centuries, reflecting broader shifts in societal attitudes and legal standards.

History

Capital punishment in Belgium dates back to the period when the region was part of the Holy Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, executions were common for a variety of crimes, including murder, treason, and witchcraft. Methods of execution included hanging, beheading, and burning at the stake.

19th Century

In the 19th century, Belgium, like many other European countries, began to question the morality and efficacy of the death penalty. The Belgian Revolution of 1830, which led to the country's independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, also brought about significant legal reforms. The new Belgian constitution of 1831 did not abolish the death penalty but did establish a more regulated legal framework for its application.

20th Century

The use of capital punishment in Belgium declined significantly in the 20th century. The last execution in Belgium took place in 1950, when Rik Coppens was executed by firing squad for crimes committed during World War II. After this, the death penalty was effectively in abeyance, although it remained on the statute books.

Abolition

Belgium formally abolished the death penalty for all crimes in 1996. The abolition was part of a broader trend in Europe towards the elimination of capital punishment. The decision was influenced by the growing consensus within the European Union and the Council of Europe against the death penalty. Belgium ratified the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which aims at the abolition of the death penalty, in 1998.

Legal Framework

Before its abolition, the death penalty in Belgium was governed by the Belgian Penal Code. The code specified the crimes that were punishable by death and the methods of execution. Over time, the list of capital crimes was reduced, and the application of the death penalty became increasingly rare.

Public Opinion

Public opinion in Belgium has shifted significantly over the years. In the early 20th century, there was still considerable support for the death penalty. However, by the time of its abolition in 1996, a majority of Belgians were opposed to capital punishment, reflecting broader changes in societal attitudes towards human rights and the value of life.

International Context

Belgium's abolition of the death penalty is consistent with the broader European trend towards the elimination of capital punishment. The country is a member of the European Union, which has a strong stance against the death penalty, and the Council of Europe, which requires member states to abolish the death penalty in peacetime.

See Also

• Capital punishment in Europe
• Human rights in Belgium
• Belgian Penal Code
• European Convention on Human Rights