Brussels Expands 'Bel Alice' Taxi Service for Sexual Assault Victims

The "Bel Alice" project, an award-winning initiative providing free taxi transport for victims of sexual violence, has expanded to the Brussels-Capital Region. Originally launched by the Montgomery police zone, the project now offers victims of sexual assault safe and immediate access to care services at the Care Centre for Sexual Violence (ZSG). This service is available 24/7, providing victims with a secure taxi ride and support from trained personnel.

A trained operator can be reached at 02 349 44 22, offering guidance to victims and dispatching a taxi when needed. Once the victim enters the taxi, they are driven by a specially trained driver who understands the sensitive nature of the situation. The taxi takes them directly to the ZSG, where a team of medical and psychological professionals is ready to provide support. Victims are not required to file a formal complaint in order to receive assistance, ensuring that the focus remains on care, not legal processes.

This initiative has been a collaboration between the Montgomery police zone, the General Student Council of UC Louvain in Woluwe, and Taxis Verts. Since its inception, the project has gained recognition, winning the Public Prize and the Prix du Québec from the Réseau Intersection in 2024 for outstanding police practices in combating sexual violence.

The expansion aims to provide a broader network of support, now involving other Brussels police zones and various associations, including Lawyer Victims Assistance and SOS Viol. These efforts are crucial given the alarming underreporting of sexual violence. According to ZSG statistics, only 55% of victims choose to file a complaint, highlighting the importance of accessible and confidential support systems.

Montgomery police zone spokesperson:

"The need for such a project is evident from the available statistics on sexual violence. This expansion is vital for improving care for victims and raising awareness of available support."