Belgium is experiencing significant disruption today as a nationwide strike organized by major unions brings public transport, airports, and ports to a standstill. The industrial action, involving tens of thousands of people, is a protest against the current government’s reform agenda and planned spending cuts.
The strike has heavily impacted travel, with all departures and numerous arrivals cancelled at Brussels Airport. The second-largest airport in Belgium, Charleroi, is also experiencing a complete halt in services. Within the capital, most buses, trams, and underground trains have ceased operating, despite some train services still running.
Maritime operations at Antwerp, Europe’s second-busiest port, have been suspended due to understaffing caused by the strike. Over 100 ships are currently waiting in the North Sea for clearance to dock at Belgian ports.
This is the latest in a series of strikes to hit Belgium since Prime Minister Bart de Wever’s government took office in February. Union leaders are particularly concerned about proposed changes to the pension system, including an increase in the number of years required to qualify for a pension, and the removal of special schemes for sectors like the military and railway workers.
Protesters voiced their dissatisfaction with the government’s austerity measures, arguing that the burden of cuts falls disproportionately on ordinary citizens. One demonstrator, Anaïs, criticized the pension reforms, stating, “65 is enough. 67 is too late. We are asked to work more, to work longer hours. It’s not fair.” Many are also concerned about the future impact of proposed budget cuts on public services and job security.
The government’s austerity plans extend beyond pensions, with proposals to limit unemployment benefits to two years and potential cuts to child benefits and increases in VAT being debated. Regional authorities are also implementing austerity measures, with teachers in Wallonia facing an increased workload, leading many to join the protests.
While the demonstrations were largely peaceful, some isolated incidents of vandalism and clashes with police were reported. Union leaders have vowed to continue their fight for workers’ rights, emphasizing the need for a generational struggle against the government’s policies.
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