Those forgotten by justice

Belgian justice is facing a major crisis of resources, with a budget of only 0.7% of GDP compared to 2% on average in Europe. This underfunding leads to unbearable processing delays for families, like that of little Zachary, who died in 2014, whose trial was only scheduled six years later after numerous changes of judges. Victims of violent attacks also experience incessant reporting, creating a feeling of impunity and deep psychological distress. Faced with this glaring lack of staff, magistrates and lawyers are warning of a failure of the system which is preventing litigants from mourning.