Prosecutor from Ghent Court of Appeal Joins Protest, Causing Case Delays

Ghent (Eurotoday) – The Public Prosecutor’s Office in Ghent, under the leadership of spokeswoman Isabelle De Tandt, has joined forces with courts across East and West Flanders to delay non-urgent cases. This coordinated action is part of a protest against newly proposed pension reforms and long-term underfunding of the justice system.

As reported by VRT News, the Ghent Prosecutor’s Office is participating in a broader judicial protest, expressing dissatisfaction with what officials describe as the “last straw” in a series of systemic problems that have plagued the justice system for years.

Isabelle De Tandt cited a number of ongoing issues in the judiciary, including chronic staffing shortages, outdated court buildings and infrastructure, delayed implementation of digital processes, and the absence of a strategic vision for modernizing the system. These challenges, she explained, have placed increasing pressure on prosecutors and court personnel, endangering the system’s long-term ability to function effectively.

Delays in Non-Urgent Cases as a Form of Protest

In a bid to draw attention to the crisis in the justice system, the Ghent Public Prosecutor’s Office will request delays in certain court proceedings. These include cases that do not involve detained suspects or require immediate action. Critical and urgent cases will continue to move forward without interruption.

Officials argue that slowing down non-essential court matters is a necessary form of pressure on policymakers to address glaring deficiencies. The intention is not to hinder justice but to highlight the urgent need for structural investment in personnel, infrastructure, and technology. The ultimate goal, according to De Tandt, is to restore the judiciary’s ability to deliver timely and fair outcomes for all citizens.

De Tandt emphasized that the strategy is flexible and will evolve based on the response from authorities. If reforms are introduced—such as hiring additional staff, renovating facilities, and advancing digital tools—the Public Prosecutor’s Office may scale back or halt these delays altogether.

The message from Ghent is clear: the justice system cannot continue to function under increasing strain without meaningful improvements. As consultations continue, officials remain ready to adjust their approach depending on future developments and commitments from the Belgian government.