Belgian unions protest in Brussels / Police used tear gas; 140 flights were canceled

Trade union protests held on Friday in Brussels against the federal government’s budget policies caused incidents near Central Station, major disruptions to public transport and the cancellation of 140 flights at the Belgian capital’s airport.

Belgium’s two largest trade union organizations, CSC-ACV and FGTB-ABVV, mobilized demonstrators to challenge the budgetary measures prepared by the government. In the area around Central Station, a group of people dressed in black and wearing masks and helmets allegedly attempted to provoke a confrontation with police. Law enforcement intervened and used tear gas to disperse the group, which allegedly later joined the crowd of trade unionists.

FGTB-ABVV organized a march between Brussels-Central and Brussels-Midi stations, warning that the measures under consideration could reduce household incomes. CSC-ACV organized demonstrations outside the headquarters of governing parties, including N-VA and MR.

The trade unions are protesting the rising cost of living, high energy bills and pressure on employees. They support an alternative plan that could raise up to €21 billion without drastic spending cuts.

The protests severely reduced metro, tram and bus services, while the Noctis night services were suspended. Brussels Airlines also canceled 40% of the flights scheduled in Brussels on Friday.