Tens of thousands expected at national union protest in Brussels

Thousands of trade union members are set to take to the streets of Brussels today for a national demonstration against the federal government’s social and economic reforms.

The protest has been organised by Belgium’s three main unions (FGTB-ABVV, CSC-ACV and CGSLB-ACLVB), which have been campaigning for months against policies they say weaken workers’ rights.

Union leaders estimate that between 50,000 and 70,000 people could join the march. Demonstrators will gather near Brussels-North Station from around 10:00 before marching towards Brussels-South Station.

The unions oppose several government measures, including changes to the wage index system, increased labour flexibility and new pension rules. They argue that the reforms will harm workers and weaken social protections.

Tensions have also grown after comments by Belgium’s pensions minister, Jan Jambon, who said women “will have to change their behaviour” by working more. Union leaders say the remarks have angered many demonstrators, especially as women already fear being disadvantaged by pension reforms due to more frequent part-time work.

The protest is expected to cause major disruption across the country. All departing passenger flights from Brussels Airport have been cancelled and more than half of arriving flights have also been scrapped. No flights are scheduled to operate at Brussels South Charleroi Airport.

Public transport services are also reduced. Several metro, tram and bus routes operated by STIB-MIVB are running with limited service, while regional operators De Lijn and TEC expect significant disruption.

Police have warned motorists to avoid driving in Brussels between 10:00 and 15:00 due to traffic restrictions along the demonstration route.

^{A strike against the government’s austerity measures in April 2025 © BELGA PHOTO TIMON RAMBOER}