The Belgian police force unveiled its new uniform design at the Etterbeek barracks this Friday, in an event attended by the Interior Minister, Annelies Verlinden.
However, officers will not receive their new uniforms until late 2026 or early 2027.
The fresh design swaps the traditional orange for a combination of blue and yellow. Nicholas Paelinck, head of the Westkust police zone (covering La Panne, Coxyde and Nieuport), believes the change was urgently needed.
"The current uniform does not command enough respect," asserts Paelinck, citing confusion often caused by the ten different components of the current uniform that make it difficult to distinguish officers from the general public.
Minister Verlinden agrees, emphasising the crucial role recognisable uniforms play in building trust between citizens and the police. This is a key factor behind the uniform’s overhaul.
Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden pictured during the presentation of the Integrated Police's new visual identity to increase visibility and reinforce uniformity, in Brussels, Friday 31 May 2024. Credit: Belga
According to Paelinck, the new uniform will also enhance the visibility of officers day and night. He describes it as “more user-friendly, modern, and comfortable.” He adds, “For female officers, especially, this is an improvement.”
However, it may take some time for these redesigned uniforms to reach the officers on the ground. Paelinck explains: "There will be trial uniforms and a European tender process. Everything has to be set out in legal texts." The hope is to have the basic uniform ready by the end of 2026 or the start of 2027.
Switching uniforms for 50,000 officers is a "large-scale logistical operation," he adds.
In addition, the police cars will receive a new ‘outfit’ as part of the revamp.
