On Thursday evening, April 3, 2025, a significant protest against sexual abuse unfolded on Herbert Hooverplein in Leuven. This demonstration was sparked by a controversial verdict in a rape case involving a gynecology student who was found guilty but received a suspended sentence, allowing him to continue his career without immediate repercussions.
The verdict, which has ignited outrage across social media and beyond, was met with a physical manifestation of dissent as hundreds gathered to express their discontent. Many attendees felt that the ruling was yet another blow to victims of sexual violence. Imani Camerlinckx, a 22-year-old student, questioned the message sent by suspending the sentence, asking, "What signal do you send when you suspend the punishment?"
Bel Boeke, an 18-year-old student, echoed this sentiment, pondering how many victims choose not to report their assaults due to a lack of evidence. "How many victims don’t report because they fear insufficient proof?" she queried, highlighting the systemic issues surrounding the reporting of sexual violence.
At the protest, 31-year-old Sofie Joblin expressed her support for the victim, stating, "This verdict does not send the right message." Her friend, Kari Lodewyckx, 28, added, "Every woman knows someone who has been harassed or raped. Now the perpetrator is convicted but receives no punishment." This sentiment resonated throughout the crowd, which included men, students, and fathers with children, all united in their call for justice.
The protesters emphasized the strange nature of the verdict, where the student was found guilty yet faced no immediate consequences. This contradiction raised concerns about the justice system's communication and effectiveness. "Justice needs to communicate better," one speaker remarked, reflecting a common frustration among attendees.
Among the signs held aloft were messages like "Raise your sons," which underscored the call for men to take responsibility for educating the next generation about consent and respect. Attendees shared personal anecdotes about the everyday realities of being a woman, such as always informing someone when they arrive safely or carrying keys between their fingers for protection.
Bel Boeke also pointed to the potential influence of the defendant's race and educational background on the verdict. "Who is white, highly educated, and studying medicine seems to have an advantage. Without wealthy parents, he likely would have faced a harsher sentence," she stated, suggesting a troubling trend of class justice.
This feeling of inequality was echoed by influencer Elisabeth Lucie Baeten, whose viral Instagram video highlighted the perception that privilege can shield individuals from accountability. "It appears that being successful and white allows one to escape consequences," Sofie Joblin affirmed.
In a surprising turn, the prosecution announced it would appeal the ruling, a decision that brought a wave of relief to those gathered at the protest. "I’m sure that without the online outrage, this wouldn’t have happened," several women expressed, hopeful that the appeal process would yield a different outcome.
Compounding the outrage was the fact that the perpetrator was studying gynecology, a detail that many found particularly troubling. "I would want to know if my gynecologist is a convicted rapist," Sofie stated, voicing a concern shared by many women in attendance. Dutch psychology student Bauke Ettema added, "While I don’t think he should be publicly shamed, we need to make it clear that this behavior is unacceptable."
The protest was organized by the PVDA youth movement Comac but maintained an apolitical stance, allowing for a broad coalition of voices to be heard. Vlaams Parlementslid Aimen Horch from Groen attended on his own initiative, noting that this incident marked the third recent case causing public outrage. "It’s not about agreeing with a judge’s decision; it’s about the need for political action to change the laws. A convicted rapist should not be allowed to practice as a gynecologist," he asserted.
The atmosphere at the protest, while charged with anger and frustration, also evolved into a celebration of womanhood and youth. The rhythmic beating of drums filled the air, creating a sense of unity and resilience among the attendees. This gathering was not just a protest; it was a declaration of the right to feel safe and respected.
Ultimately, the events of the evening underscored a collective demand for change, not only in legal terms but also in societal attitudes towards sexual violence and accountability. As the night wore on, the voices of those gathered echoed a powerful message: it is time for justice to be served, and for all individuals, regardless of their background, to be held accountable for their actions.
The court of Leuven had previously made the verdict public in response to the controversy it generated. The 24-year-old medical student had been granted a suspension after being convicted of rape, which means he will avoid punishment if he does not commit further offenses. This leniency has sparked widespread incomprehension, especially since it allows the student to continue his medical training unhindered.
In light of the backlash, the court provided a link to the full verdict on its website, allowing the public to understand the judges' reasoning behind their decision. However, the prosecution has formally appealed the suspension, and the appeal will take place in Brussels, marking another chapter in this ongoing struggle for justice.
