'It's useless to be afraid': Brussels Christmas market in the shadow of terrorism threat

On 19 December, a lorry smashed into a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. With wounds unhealed from the previous atrocities in Brussels, Belgians did not succumb to fear when confronted with the the threat of terrorism.

Sipping mulled wine from a plastic cup, Lisa van der Schueren shrugs when faced with the question: "I didn't make any links with Berlin at all. I did think about it briefly [before coming here], but didn’t dramatise it," she says. "Although, when I did arrive at the market, I thought - could that tiny barrier stop a lorry?"

While some are worried about the same scenario repeating in Brussels, others have grown accustomed to the heightened state of awareness. Vlad Amariei from Romania has no choice but to work inside the market stall. "You see people jump when any noise happens in the street. You’re always aware and on the lookout; it’s a normal reaction," he says. "I don't feel safe here and when I think about it, it only gets worse. Yesterday, something fell in the street and a group of people jumped terrified."

He adds: "Business has gotten worse. My friend who owns a shop next door estimates that there are 50% less people than before the Berlin attacks."

Conversation is interrupted, with eyes turning towards a passing police van with blue lights flashing. "It doesn’t matter that the army and the police are here - in France and in Belgium they were present during the attacks, and yet it still happened," says Amariei. "Everyone is afraid, but that is also the purpose of terrorism."

With the approaching evening, the steady flow of people increases - and so does the noticeable military presence in the key areas. In between the crowds, high-visibility police on bicycles engage in friendly chats. Passing by the now-packed stalls, the all-so-common melting pot of languages flows from the tables laden with mulled wine and seasonal foods.

Like many others around them, Maria and Ianthe Gahyes came to Brussels for a daytrip. "Even though there’s always the thought of it in the back of your head, we do feel safe. You can't know for sure, so it's useless to be afraid and stay home," says Ianthe.

The Brussels-Capital police force said in a statement: "During these five weeks [of festivities], police will be present in large numbers. Other police officers in plain clothes will also be present on site."

"We, the shopkeepers, feel safe, but the regular public do not," says Lionel Mariotte, the owner of a Christmas market stall. "After the Berlin attacks, the idea of a celebration is gone and business is down."

However he is adamant that the risk should be put into perspective. "When you put too much importance on it, it creates panic in people’s minds. I could die from a car accident any time."

Photos: Benas Gerdziunas