Japa: The Highest Number of Forced Prostitutes in Belgium is Nigerians – Belgium Official

The Belgian Government has revealed that Nigerians constitute the largest group of individuals coerced into engaging in prostitution within the European country.

Freddy Roosemont, the Director-General of the Belgian Office for Foreigners, disclosed this information during a press conference held in Abuja on Friday.

Roosemont emphasized the disparity between the perceived European dream and the harsh reality, stating, “The dream is not real. It is not easy to survive in Europe without a decent job. The dream is fake. Belgium is not the land of milk and honey, nor is Europe. The highest number of forced prostitutes in Belgium is Nigerians.”

Individuals seek asylum upon arrival in Belgium, but the Geneva Convention minimally considers economic motives, resulting in a low recognition rate for asylum, he explained. Consequently, the chances of obtaining a residence permit are almost non-existent. Some migrants attempt to move to other European countries, only to find their asylum requests already submitted in Belgium, resulting in their return to Belgium and eventual deportation to Nigeria.

“As a consequence, people are forced to live in irregular stay, without a social safety net, in precarious conditions. They risk economic exploitation, and women risk ending up in prostitution.” Roosemont added.

In 2022, the Director-General highlighted that 362 Nigerians sought asylum, and in 2023, 380 applied, but few received approval. He urged Nigerians to resist deceptive enticements encouraging them to embark on risky journeys to Europe without university admission, a job offer from a Belgian company, or an invitation from a family member.

Concluding, the Belgian official advised saying:

“Do not invest money for the very risky journey through the Mediterranean nor fill the pockets of human traffickers. Invest in your education, building on the realization of your dreams in Nigeria. A stay in Belgium, through regular channels, can be a useful complement.”

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