Brussels – A large-scale anti-migration rally erupted in the Belgian capital on Sunday, with thousands of people heeding the call of far-right groups to protest against the UN migration pact. Clashes broke out at the demonstration, prompting police to use tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd.

According to police figures, some 5,500 people gathered in Brussels’ European Quarter, home to several EU institutions. Protesters held placards reading “Our people first” and “Enough is enough, close the borders.” Most of the demonstrators were supporters of the Vlaams Belang party, which fiercely opposes the UN migration pact signed last week in Marrakesh.

During the gathering, some demonstrators threw projectiles and firecrackers at police, who then intervened. Belgian news agency Belga reported that about 90 people were detained. Meanwhile, a counter-demonstration with around 1,000 participants took place in another part of Brussels.

Belgian authorities had initially banned both gatherings over fears of unrest, but the Council of State – the country’s highest administrative court – overturned the ban. Brussels Mayor Philippe Close had previously noted that some 1,200 demonstrations take place in the city each year, and that more and more organisers are failing to follow procedures and no longer apply for permits.

The rally comes amid political turmoil over the UN migration pact. Last Monday, more than 150 countries approved the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. In Belgium, however, the pact has become a political hot potato: after the largest coalition party, the N-VA, left the government over the pact, Prime Minister Charles Michel now leads a minority cabinet. At the rally, some protesters called for Michel to resign, and several opposition parties have already requested a vote of confidence.

Migration remains a deeply divisive issue across Europe. Non-governmental organisations have questioned the pact’s feasibility in practice and on the high seas. Sunday’s clashes in Brussels once again highlight the deep divisions within Belgian society over migration.