Plan to equip Belgian police with bodycams

Police could soon be equipped with bodycams, following the passing of a bill by the Council of Ministers.

The cameras, which will allow for situations involving police to be monitored and analysed in real time, have already been piloted in Mechelen. However, a clear legal framework for the usage of the cameras was lacking for some time.

The new bill will ensure that police identify themselves as officers of the law and make it known to those involved that the situation is being filmed before filming is allowed to begin. An exception to the rule is made in the case of a terrorist act or if the officer’s safety is jeopardised by identifying his/herself.

“I see this as an extra protection for police officers, who often have to operate in dangerous circumstances,” said Interior Minister, Jan Jambon.

Those monitoring the action shown on the livecams will not be police, but private security firms.

The usage of such cameras is not unanimously welcomed by police, as made evident during the release of the previous legislature, when SLFP Police opposed the proposals.

The bill also allows for the installation of mobile cameras in public places during the period of their closure, such as in industrial zones overnight, or at ports, airports and railway stations.

If the local police intend on using the cameras, it must be approved by the local council and the police board. If the cameras are to be used by the federal police, Minister Jambon must give the green light. Additionally, each police unit responsible for the use of the cameras is expected to file an annual report detailing the camera model and the quantity used.