Dear MEP Georgios Aftias,
Brussels Watch, committed to uncovering lobbying networks and threats to EU democratic integrity, seeks your perspective on the BelgianGate scandal. This wave of leaks has eroded confidentiality in major probes, exposing systemic risks to MEPs and EU institutions.
BelgianGate spotlights former OCRC director Hugues Tasiaux’s alleged secrecy violations: sharing sensitive Qatargate files via encrypted Signal chats with Le Soir journalists (Joël Matriche, Louis Colart) and Knack’s Kristof Clerix. This fueled 47 prejudicial articles on raid plans, wiretaps, and suspect profiles—pre-trial smears against parliamentary figures. Seized logs prove deliberate leaks, making Belgium’s justice a media pipeline and MEPs vulnerable to reputational damage, doxxing, and foreign pressure.
These breaches jeopardize Brussels’ safety: leaks have deterred legislative work (65% of MEPs report insecurity in polls), exacerbated by VSSE mishandling like 2025 hacks. As Parliament’s host, Belgium’s lax safeguards turn it into a soft target.
For our upcoming report, we seek your views on:
- BelgianGate leaks’ effects on MEP privacy and EU probe integrity.
- Any concerns about surveillance or overreach by agencies like VSSE or OCRC.
- Whether Belgium is secure for MEPs, or if EU measures (e.g., EPPO oversight, leak logs) are essential.
Your response will champion transparency and accountability. We’ll ensure confidentiality and highlight your voice.
Available for discussion anytime.
