Key Takeaways
- A three-day national strike is causing widespread disruption across Belgium’s public services and transport networks.
- All departing flights from Brussels (Bruxelles-Zaventem) and Charleroi airports are set to be canceled on Wednesday due to the escalating industrial action.
- The strike is a response to the Belgian government’s proposed austerity measures, including reforms to labor laws, unemployment benefits, and pensions.
- Travelers are advised to expect major disruptions, with rail services like Eurostar and local public transport also significantly affected.
A massive national strike is set to bring Belgium to a standstill this week, culminating in the cancellation of all departing flights from the country’s main airports on Wednesday. The three-day industrial action, called by unions, is a direct challenge to the government’s proposed austerity measures aimed at shrinking the national debt.
Why The Strike is Happening
The nationwide protest comes after the centre-right coalition government, which took office in February, announced plans to cut the budget deficit. Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s administration is pursuing changes to labor laws and reforms to the pension and unemployment systems to bring the country’s finances in line with EU rules.
Unions have responded with a staged industrial action after they say a demonstration in Brussels two weeks ago was met with “total silence” from the government. Their demands include fair pensions, the introduction of a fair wealth tax, and greater transparency on corporate subsidies.
Massive Travel Disruption Expected
The strike is designed to escalate over three days, impacting nearly every sector of public life and causing significant travel chaos.
All Departing Flights Canceled
Both of Belgium’s primary airports have warned of a complete shutdown for outgoing air traffic on Wednesday. Bruxelles-Zaventem airport stated it expects “major disruptions,” confirming that all departing flights will be canceled as security and handling staff join the strike.
Similarly, Charleroi airport announced it will be unable to operate any scheduled departures or arrivals during the general strike. Both airports have urged passengers to check with their airlines but to anticipate a full stop to operations.
Trains and Public Transport Also Hit
The disruption began on Monday, with a significant impact on the national railroad company, SNCB. Many trains were canceled, and international services were also hit. Eurostar reported that some of its services linking Brussels to Paris were canceled, with other international routes suffering delays.
Public transport within cities has also been heavily affected. Brussels has warned of “disrupted services” throughout the three days, while the De Lijn transport company in Flanders advised residents to expect fewer bus and tram services.
A Staged National Protest
The industrial action is unfolding in three distinct phases:
- Monday: The strike began with a focus on public transport, primarily affecting trains and local transit.
- Tuesday: The action expands to include public services, with staff from schools, daycares, and hospitals joining the walkout.
- Wednesday: The protest culminates in a full general strike covering all sectors, including the critical aviation industry, effectively grounding all departing flights.
Travelers scheduled to fly to or from Belgium this week are strongly advised to contact their airline for the latest information and potential rebooking options.
Image Referance: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0jew0lyv98o