Belgium

Belgium

Right	Section	Contents
Freedom of Association	History	Belgium has one of the oldest constitutions in the world. The first assertion of freedom of association is mentioned in the Constitution of Belgium of 1831 that was ratified February 7th.Freedom of association is mentioned under title II, article 20. In the latest amendment it is mentioned under article 27. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Belgium_1831 https://www.dekamer.be/kvvcr/pdf_sections/publications/constitution/GrondwetUK.pdf
Freedom of Expression	History	In Belgium freedom of expression is guaranteed by the articles of their 1831 constitution, except in situations where crimes are committed while in use of said freedoms which is still illegal (i.e. vandalism during a protest). “Belgium 1831 (Rev. 2014) Constitution.” Constitute. Accessed September 14, 2022. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Belgium_2014?lang=en.
Freedom of Religion	History	Articles 19, 20, and 21 of Belgium’s 1831 Constitution contain the first protections of freedom of religion in the country’s history. Article 24 requires compulsory education to not discriminate based on religion. However, Article 19 states that “offenses committed when this freedom is used may be punished.” “Belgium’s Constitution of 1831 with Amendments through 2014.” Constitute. Accessed July 20, 2023. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Belgium_2014.pdf?lang=en
Freedom of the Press	History	Article 23 of the 27 October 1830 Draft Constitution of Belgium states that “The press is free. Censorship [la censure] should never be established, and cautioning of writers, editors or printers may not be demanded.” References: English translation of the French text of the draft of the constitution of 27 October 1830 35 (2009): https://heinonline-org.proxygw.wrlc.org/HOL/Page?collection=cow&handle=hein.cow/zzbe0096&id=5&men_tab=srchresults
Privacy Rights	History	Article 11 of the 27 October 1830 Draft Constitution of Belgium protected privacy in the home, and Article 27 protected the privacy of correspondance. References: English translation of the French text of the draft of the constitution of 27 October 1830 35 (2009): https://heinonline-org.proxygw.wrlc.org/HOL/Page?collection=cow&handle=hein.cow/zzbe0096&id=5&men_tab=srchresults
Voting Rights and Suffrage	History	Beglain citizens are automatically registered on the electoral rolls when reaching the age of 18 and are subject to compulsory voting under Article 62 of the Belgian Constitution (Legislationline, “The Belgian Constitution”).