Over the past few years, the government has spent tens of millions of euros on social projects to improve life in disadvantaged neighbourhoods but to little effect, according to research by sociologist Vasco Lub.

For example, the use of street coaches does not lead to a reduction in the nuisance caused by groups of young men hanging around, and it is questionable whether neighbourhood sports events encourage such youths to be more sociable, he says.

Research has not been able to establish if projects to bring locals closer together create a safer environment, raising questions about the usefulness of ‘numerous’ initiatives, said Lub, who carried out the research for social affairs institute Movisie.

However, citizen patrols may have a positive effect. Foreign research shows that using citizen patrols does lead to a reduction in petty crime, compared with areas without such patrols, Nos television quoted Lub as saying.