Tens of thousands of people marched through central Brussels, Belgium, on Thursday – today. February 13 – to protest against planned government reforms, as unions warned of further strike action unless policymakers reconsider their proposals.
According to police estimates, around 60,000 demonstrators participated in the protest, waving banners and chanting slogans against measures outlined in the newly-formed Arizona federal government agreement.
The proposed reforms, which included changes to pensions, stricter conditions for early retirement, and cuts to public services, had sparked widespread anger across Belgium.
Protesters expressed concerns that these measures could disproportionately impact lower-income workers and put further strain on the country’s already stretched public service infrastructure.
The demonstration brought parts of the capital to a standstill, halting traffic on key routes and disrupting public transport.
Brussels Airport canceled 430 flights as ground operations were suspended, while metro, bus, and tram services were severely affected.
Belgium’s main trade unions, including FGTB, CSC, and CGSLB, organised the protest, arguing that the reforms will undermine job security and reduce the quality of state services.
The protest remained largely peaceful.
Union leaders have warned of a nationwide general strike on March 31, if the government did not respond, according to agency reports.
