Key facts
- Belgium recorded 1,222 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29.
- The excess mortality rate during the heat wave was 39 percent.
- Over 530 deaths were among people aged over 85.
- Belgium's emergency number 112 did not function properly during the heat wave.
- Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke ordered an evaluation of the response.
Belgium's federal government is facing significant criticism after a recent record-breaking heat wave was linked to over 1,200 excess deaths. Opposition parties, led by Socialist Party leader Paul Magnette, have accused ministers of failing to adequately protect the country's most vulnerable citizens.
Magnette stated on X that "1222 deaths during the recent heat wave episode, a 39 percent excess mortality rate, and … 0 measures taken by the federal government!" He emphasized the urgency of the climate and public health emergency, warning that "We're talking about human lives."
The figures emerged following what scientists have described as Europe's most severe heat wave on record, which strained hospitals and infrastructure across the continent. Belgium's health ministry reported an unprecedented spike in mortality, with more than 530 deaths among individuals over 85 and around 180 among those under 65.
Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke defended the government's preparedness, stating that hospitals and care homes were ready and that protecting vulnerable populations is a societal issue. However, he acknowledged that Belgium's emergency number 112 "did not function properly" during the crisis and has requested Interior Minister Bernard Quintin to implement stronger measures. Vandenbroucke has initiated an evaluation of the response and requested recommendations from Belgium's Risk Management Group.