Increase in Congolese asylum requests in Belgium: Anneleen van Bossuyt recalls the granting criteria

The number of Congolese seeking asylum in Belgium reached 450 applications in the first quarter of 2026, an increase from 2,500 requests last year. Belgian Minister of Asylum and Migration, Anneleen van Bossuyt, stated that economic motivations do not qualify for refugee status, which is reserved for those fearing persecution. She also emphasized that over 80% of regular visa applications are granted, encouraging Congolese citizens to prefer these legal pathways.