Belgium Harmonizes Legislation Ahead of New Penal Code Implementation
On June 19, 2026, the Belgian government approved a royal decree to harmonize various royal decrees in preparation for the new Penal Code's implementation on September 1, 2026.
Purpose of the Harmonization
The harmonization aims to align existing royal decrees with the principles and numbering of the new Penal Code. This process involves updating references and standardizing terminology to ensure a coherent application of the new legal framework.
Key Modifications
Among the substantive changes, the decree includes:
- Amendments to the royal decree of August 9, 1991, concerning the timeframe and procedures for third-party claims on confiscated items.
- Modifications to Article 61 of the royal decree of September 6, 2017, regulating narcotic and psychotropic substances.
These adjustments are essential for the consistent enforcement of the new Penal Code across various legal domains.
Next Steps
The decree has been submitted to the Council of State for further review and advice. This step ensures that the harmonization process adheres to legal standards and effectively supports the forthcoming Penal Code.
For more details, refer to the official announcement: Justice : harmonisation du nouveau Code pénal.
