On April 29, 2025, the Interior Commission of the Chamber discussed a proposed police zone merger plan introduced by Minister Bernard Quintin.

This initiative aims to consolidate police zones in response to recent spikes in drug-related violence, starting with the six zones in Brussels.

The merger is set to take effect in January 2027 in Brussels, with intentions for a nationwide rollout following this initial phase.

The reform includes the appointment of a single police chief for Brussels, which is expected to enhance operational decision-making while preserving local police actions.

Minister Quintin believes that the Brussels merger could serve as a model for police consolidation across the rest of Belgium.

Quintin plans to begin consultations with stakeholders next week and aims to submit the project for government validation by July 21, 2025.

Support for this reform has emerged from Flemish opposition parties, including Groen and Open Vld.

However, criticism has been voiced by Francophone representatives, particularly from the PS and DéFI parties, who are concerned about inadequate consultation with local mayors and insufficient funding for police increases.

Ridouane Chahid from the PS expressed fears that the reform could lead to inadequate representation for Dutch speakers in the future unified police council.