The safe.brussels Observatory

To strengthen the fight against crime and improve public policies on prevention, security and crisis management, it is essential to identify and monitor crime and security trends, describe them and understand their causes.

As a leading regional research centre, the safe.brussels Observatory produces and disseminates scientific knowledge, reliable data, reports and analyses to inform public policy and foster a better understanding of security issues in the Brussels-Capital Region.

Security research centre

The safe.brussels Observatory generates scientific knowledge and makes it accessible to support public policies that are effective, coherent and suited to the realities of Brussels.

Monitoring and analysing security trends
The Observatory systematically monitors crime and security trends, identifying emerging trends and analysing their evolution over time and across different locations.
Research and evaluation of public policies
It conducts quantitative and qualitative research to gain a better understanding of security phenomena and their underlying causes. It also evaluates public policies on safety and security by comparing the results achieved against the stated objectives.
Knowledge sharing and dissemination
The Observatory makes its analyses, conclusions and recommendations available through publications, presentations and communication tools tailored to different audiences. It also helps its partners make more effective use of data and strengthen their evaluation capabilities by providing methodological support to stakeholders developing their own analyses.

Methodology: rigour, independence and public value

The safe.brussels Observatory's work is based on a rigorous, independent methodology that supports public action.

Scientifically rigorous research

It develops its research questions independently, applies strict methodological standards and, when appropriate, collaborates with the academic community, particularly through framework agreements, joint publications and peer-review processes.

Research that serves society and informs public policy

Research topics and projects are selected based on policy priorities, the needs of partners in the field and citizens, and the potential of the research to add value to society. As a directorate within safe.brussels, the Observatory has direct links with stakeholders working in prevention, security and crisis management. This helps identify research questions and produce analyses grounded in the realities of Brussels.

Visibility, partnerships and outreach

The Observatory places particular emphasis on raising the profile of its work, developing partnerships and continually strengthening its team's expertise. This visibility is supported, in particular, by a publication strategy that combines scientific outputs with accessible formats, as well as active participation in scientific and professional networks at regional level and beyond.

Developing in-house expertise

The Observatory invests in the ongoing professional development of its analysts. Their expertise encompasses quantitative and qualitative research methods (statistical analysis, mapping, surveys, etc.), in-depth knowledge of security phenomena and public policy, and the ability to communicate research findings to a wide range of audiences. Ongoing training, involvement in professional and academic networks and collaborative learning within the team ensure that its work remains high-quality, credible and up to date.