Brussels Paralyzed as Nationwide Strike Erupts Over Government Reforms
Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Brussels on Tuesday, bringing much of Belgium to a standstill during a massive national strike over pension reforms and austerity measures. The demonstrations, organized by the country’s three largest unions, disrupted flights, public transport, and port operations, marking one of the most significant industrial actions in Belgium in recent years.
The strike comes in response to a series of budget cuts and pension reforms introduced by Prime Minister Bart de Wever’s center-right government, which unions say disproportionately burden working families while sparing the wealthy.
Flights and Transport Brought to a Halt
Air travel was hit hardest. Charleroi Airport, Belgium’s second-busiest hub, cancelled all flights, while Brussels Airport suspended all departures and many arrivals. The air traffic chaos left thousands of passengers stranded.
Ground transport fared no better. While some trains continued operating, most buses, trams, and metro services in the capital were halted. Commuters across Brussels faced long delays, with many forced to walk or cycle to work.
The strike also impacted Belgium’s crucial shipping and logistics sector. Operations at Antwerp, Europe’s second-largest port, were suspended until Wednesday, as staff shortages forced closures. More than 100 ships were left waiting in the North Sea, according to the country’s maritime and coastal services agency, MDK.
Massive Turnout in Central Brussels
By midday, police estimated that around 80,000 people had gathered in Brussels to join the protest. Demonstrators marched through the city center, waving banners, blowing whistles, and chanting slogans denouncing austerity and inequality. Many wore red and green, the colors representing Belgium’s major unions.
Public sector workers, including teachers, health workers, and transport employees, were prominently visible. They expressed anger over what they see as a government increasingly catering to corporate and elite interests at the expense of ordinary Belgians.
Pension Reforms at the Heart of the Unrest
The unions’ primary grievance centers on the government’s pension reform plan, which aims to raise the number of working days required before retirement benefits can be claimed. The reforms would also end several special pension schemes enjoyed by sectors such as the military and railway workers.
Prime Minister De Wever’s administration has also proposed a two-year cap on unemployment benefits and hinted at further budget tightening measures for next year. Reports suggest that reductions in child benefits and a VAT increase are under consideration.
“It’s always the same people who are asked to make sacrifices,” said Anaïs, 29, a demonstrator holding a placard with the number 67 crossed out in red — a protest against the retirement age increase. “They tell us to work longer and harder while the rich remain untouched. It’s not fair.”
Although the retirement age was raised to 67 nearly a decade ago, long before the current government took office, it remains a deeply unpopular policy. De Wever’s administration has signaled its intent to preserve it, further fueling anger among workers who feel squeezed by inflation and stagnant wages.
Voices from the Protest
Union leaders and protesters spoke passionately about what they view as an attack on workers’ rights. Thierry Bodson, head of the ABVV union, addressed the massive crowd, declaring that “the fight against the De Wever government is not just the struggle of a day or a year — it’s a fight for an entire generation.”
Vanessa, a mother of two who traveled from Charleroi to join the rally, said she fears for her children’s future. “We need to stand up now. If we don’t, what kind of life will our children have?” she told the BBC.
For many, the strike was about more than pensions — it symbolized broader frustration with rising living costs, job insecurity, and shrinking public services.
Wider Impact Across Belgium’s Regions
The effects of austerity are not confined to the federal level. Belgium’s complex multi-layered government structure means that regional authorities are also implementing spending cuts.
In Wallonia, the country’s largely French-speaking southern region, officials recently announced that teachers in higher secondary schools will be required to work an additional two hours per week.
“Nothing is clear yet, but it’s worrying,” said Sandrine, 48, a teacher from Wallonia who joined the protests. “If higher-level teachers must work more, many jobs could disappear.”
Peaceful Protest Marred by Scattered Clashes
While the day remained mostly peaceful, police reported isolated incidents of vandalism and arson during the early hours. Some masked individuals clashed briefly with law enforcement near government buildings, leading to a few arrests. Authorities said they remained committed to allowing peaceful demonstrations but would act firmly against violence.
Despite the disruptions, the protest maintained a festive yet determined atmosphere. Music, speeches, and chants echoed through Brussels’ historic boulevards, symbolizing solidarity among workers from across the nation.
A Struggle Over Belgium’s Economic Future
As the sun set over Brussels, protesters dispersed but vowed to continue their movement. Union leaders have warned that if the government refuses to revise its policies, further strikes and demonstrations are likely in the coming months.
For now, Belgium faces a delicate balancing act — between meeting EU fiscal targets and responding to mounting public anger. With inflation still biting and inequality widening, the question of who should bear the burden of economic reform remains at the heart of the country’s political debate.
“The message is clear,” said one union organizer. “Workers are tired of paying the price for policies that benefit only a few. Today, Belgium’s streets have spoken — loudly and united.”