The ECR Group in the European Parliament has expressed shock and deep concern following reports of a brutal knife attack in Belfast, in which a man suffered serious injuries to his face, neck and back.

The ECR Group underlines that, while this incident took place in the United Kingdom, it should serve as a warning to the European Union as well: asylum must never become a blind spot in Europe’s security architecture. European countries must know who is entering and whether potential risks to public safety have been properly assessed.

At the same time, the ECR Group stresses that protest must remain peaceful and lawful. But political leaders must also understand that public concern will only grow if legitimate worries about asylum, border control and public safety are ignored.

ECR Co-Chairman Nicola Procaccini said:

“This is a shocking and tragic case. Our first thoughts are with the victim and the brave members of the public who intervened. But political leaders also have a responsibility to draw the right lessons. People entering a country through irregular routes must be subject to thorough and credible security checks. Gaps in border systems and asylum procedures must never become loopholes in our security system.”

ECR Co-Chairman Patryk Jaki said:

“Public safety must come first, and citizens have the right to expect that the authorities know who is entering their country, who has the right to stay, and whether security concerns have been properly identified. Violence on the streets is not the answer. But neither is political denial. The abuse of asylum procedures is a real problem. It must be addressed lawfully, firmly and without delay.”

The ECR Group has consistently called for stronger external borders, faster asylum procedures, effective returns and better security screening across Europe. There must be no loopholes when public safety is at stake.