Introducing MAVEK

The newly formed MAVEK (Slachtofferverbond Kerkelijk Misbruik) is closely aligned with what BASTA seeks to achieve: concrete justice for survivors of clerical sexual abuse, not symbolic gestures.

While BASTA originated in the frustration of members of the “Group of 15,” who felt completely unheard even after two visits to the Pope, MAVEK was founded by members of earlier victim groups, which represent far larger numbers of survivors than “The Group of 15”. The emergence of MAVEK is therefore a powerful sign of unity. Different groups, different histories, but a shared determination to obtain real solutions.

MAVEK is a temporary, independent alliance that brings together victims and supporters to press the Belgian government for a fair, legal, and independent arrangement for survivors of church abuse. This approach mirrors BASTA’s call for structural, government-led solutions, including a reparations fund financed by the Church.

What makes MAVEK especially significant is that it unites many different victim groups around the same core demands. After years of fragmentation, survivors are now aligning on three core principles:

ombudsman + official victim status + reparations fund

These priorities correspond directly to the goals advocated by BASTA: independent oversight, formal recognition of victims, and durable material reparation.

A strong number of endorsements will give additional weight to these demands when members of the Group of 15 meet Minister Verlinden in early March. Every signature strengthens the case for meaningful action.

MAVEK and BASTA are complementary initiatives with the same objective: concrete, independent justice for survivors. Visit the MAVEK website, add your name to the petition, and help turn this growing unity into a force that cannot be ignored.