How Bad Are Brussels Terror Attacks For EU Stability?

A deadly terrorist attack on Brussels airport and subway system on Tuesday has left dozens killed and several injured. Market intelligence firm Stratfor analyzed how bad Brussels terror attacks are for EU stability.

"The first outcome of the Brussels attacks will be a fresh round of debate over EU border controls, in particular those in the Schengen zone," Stratfor said in a report.

The report added that several governments in Western Europe is expected to soon announce new national security legislation, improved controls on fighters returning from conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as enhanced intelligence sharing with their neighbors.

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"Anti-Muslim sentiment could also lead to more support for nationalist parties across the Continent," the report highlighted. "Political parties and groups that want the United Kingdom to leave the European Union could also use the recent terrorist attacks to justify greater isolation from the Continent."

The report noted that the Brussels attacks will hurt European economies, albeit only for a short time, as people may avoid densely populated areas such as shopping malls and cafes due to fear of another attack. It is likely to temporarily affect domestic consumption and tourism.

"For most Europeans, the threat of terrorism is by now a part of their daily lives. Beyond national politics and economics, the long-term impacts of the attacks will affect the very fabric of the European Union," the report said.