Starting next year, every higher education institution must draft a strategic plan to combat violence, conduct awareness and training for the academic community, and ensure students receive psychological, legal, and administrative support.

The Government of the Federation Wallonie-Bruxelles approved an outline decree to prevent and combat harassment, gender-based and sexual violence, and discrimination in higher education, with the aim of protecting students.

An annual budget of two million euros is allocated to implement the decree, covering five key axes: formal commitment by institutions, prevention, victim support, reporting procedures, and communication.

Institutions will have external contact points funded to operate a listening and support unit outside campuses, offering confidential channels for students to report concerns.

As part of sanctions, there will be a three-year academic exclusion from any FWB-connected or subsidized institution following a definitive expulsion for harassment, gender-based or sexual violence, or discrimination.

Reporting mechanisms and sanctions will include explicit complaint procedures, protection against retaliation, and clear disciplinary processes.