Belgian minister renews push for 'vandals-pay' law after student protest clashes

Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin has renewed his call for a "casseurs-payeurs" (vandals-pay) law following student protest incidents last week, insisting that those responsible for damage must bear the costs rather than the collective. Speaking on RTL-TVi Sunday, Quintin argued there is no reason for taxpayers to pay for destruction, as new protest calls emerged for Monday. The government agreed in March to implement measures targeting vandals, including protest bans and financial liability, with the file now with Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden. Quintin warned that minors cannot act without consequences, while opposition party PS called the violence "a sign of failure" and urged non-violent action. PS leader Martin Casier blamed education ministers Degryse and Glatigny for increasing tensions, saying only withdrawing their "brutal measures" can restore calm.