Brussels Attacks Victims Face Repayment Demands from Pension Service

Ten years after the devastating 2016 Brussels attacks, some survivors are facing the unexpected demand to repay tens of thousands of euros to the Belgian Pension Service (FPS Pensions). The situation has sparked outrage and renewed trauma for those affected by the bombings at Brussels Airport and Maalbeek metro station, which killed 32 people and injured over 300.

The Repayment Issue

The FPS Pensions is seeking to recover funds paid out to victims who too received compensation from other sources, such as insurance payouts. This practice, while technically within the legal framework, has been criticized as insensitive and adding further hardship to those already struggling with the physical and psychological consequences of the attacks. Walter Benjamin, who lost a leg in the Brussels Airport bombing, is among those affected and continues to battle for a final payout for his injuries .

Timeline of the Attacks

On March 22, 2016, three Islamic State militants carried out suicide bombings at Brussels Airport. Two detonated their bombs in the departures hall, while the third abandoned his device, which did not explode. Just over an hour later, another militant detonated a bomb at the Maalbeek metro station. The attacks resulted in 32 fatalities and more than 300 injuries .

Financial Aid and Compensation

The Commission for Financial Aid to Victims has, to date, paid out 7.9 million euros ($9.11 million) to survivors of the attacks . However, the recovery efforts by the FPS Pensions are causing significant distress, with victims reporting being asked to repay substantial sums.

Impact on Survivors

Walter Benjamin, a survivor who lost his leg in the airport bombing, describes the ongoing administrative battle as weighing heavily on his mind. He continues to undergo physical rehabilitation, training on a treadmill several times a week, but the financial strain adds to his challenges. He recalls the horrific scenes from the day of the attack, stating, “I can still smell the burned bodies… You have to realise this was actually a war zone. People died, people were torn apart.” .

Commemoration and Remembrance

A ceremony to commemorate the 2016 terrorist attacks was held at the Chamber of the Federal Parliament in Brussels on March 17, 2026, with Valerie Gerard of Life4Brussels in attendance . The event served as a reminder of the enduring impact of the attacks on the Belgian community.

The situation highlights the complex challenges faced by victims of terrorism in navigating compensation systems and the need for greater sensitivity and support from government agencies.