Europe Experiences Widespread Disorder on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve saw widespread disturbances and violence across several European cities, straining law enforcement and emergency services. Numerous incidents involving fires, attacks on emergency personnel, and the use of fireworks were reported.

Disturbances in Belgium

Brussels experienced a surge in outdoor fires and vehicle arson on New Year’s Eve, with many incidents linked to fireworks. Firearms were also observed in the streets. In Antwerp, police described the night as “extremely turbulent and dangerous,” with police cars, ambulances, and fire engines targeted by stones, eggs, and fireworks. Approximately 100 young people, primarily under the age of 20, were arrested.

Violence in the Netherlands

The Netherlands faced significant disturbances beginning early on New Year’s Eve, requiring the deployment of almost all available riot police. Police reported a “downright devastating” impact from heavy fireworks in some areas. Violence against emergency services was widespread, including Molotov cocktails thrown at police in Breda. The head of the Dutch Police Union reported being targeted by fireworks and explosives, calling the level of violence “unprecedented.” In Utrecht, police in several neighborhoods were subjected to “massively and almost continuously” attacks by groups of young people using heavy fireworks, necessitating the use of a water cannon.

Attacks in Germany

The German Police Union (DPolG) in Berlin reported attacks on police and firefighters, stating that those who describe the night as largely peaceful are ignoring targeted attacks on emergency personnel. Rockets were fired at emergency vehicles, which the DPolG characterized as attacks on the state. Based on colleague accounts, the perpetrators appeared to be predominantly of Arab and Turkish origin. In Berlin’s Wedding district, the fire department required police protection to operate. A spokesperson for the AfD party criticized the classification of the night as “less problematic,” citing a failure to address the issues stemming from mass immigration.

Incidents in France

France also experienced significant unrest, with reports indicating 1,173 cars were set on fire on New Year’s Eve.

Statements on European Trends

Balázs Orbán, political director of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, stated on X that events in Berlin reflect a growing trend of public order breakdown in Western European cities due to migration. He attributed the incidents to years of mass migration, weak enforcement, and political denial. Orbán affirmed Hungary’s commitment to preventing mass immigration and ensuring public safety.