National demonstration in Brussels against the rising cost of living

Thousands of militants, demanding more purchasing power and a real ceiling on energy prices have come together in Brussels. The national demonstration was organised by the trade unions 

The unions decided to take to the streets again after the federal government came up with its proposal to smooth wage negotiations between unions and employers. The margin for mark-up above the index remained 0 per cent, but companies that were doing well could give their staff a one-off cheque of up to 750 euros. The unions weren't happy with this proposal and demanded more.

Public transport will be disrupted. In particular, De Lijn and STIB are hindered by the absent staff members. Train traffic, however, will run normally today. From several cities, the SNCB is even putting in extra trains to transport the demonstrators. At Brussels Airport, six out of ten flights have already been cancelled in advance.

The unions' march starts at the North Station and moves from there along Kruidtuin Avenue towards Pachecolaan. The demonstrators then march past Central Station and Mont des Arts. Afterwards, they descend via Cellebroerstraat to Lemonnierlaan and then towards the terminus at South Station.

^{A protester holds a placard reading: "Increase salaries and pensions" as people take part in a demonstration against the rising cost of living, in Brussels, Belgium December 16, 2022. © BELGA PHOTO Johanna Geron}