Belgium faces major disruptions this week. A three-day strike began on Monday. Unions organized the protest against government austerity plans. These plans aim to shrink the national debt.
The industrial action will happen in three waves. Consequently, schools will close, and travel will stop across the country.
Transport and Services Halted
The strikes started on Monday with public transport. The national railroad company is running on a reduced schedule. Only one or two out of every three trains are operating. Additionally, several international high-speed train connections to Paris have been cancelled.
The situation will worsen on Tuesday. Public services will join the protest. This includes schools, creches, and hospitals.
Finally, unions have called for a full general strike on Wednesday. This will cover all sectors. No flights are expected at the country’s two main airports, Brussels-Zaventem and Charleroi.
Government Strikes a Budget Deal
Prime Minister Bart De Wever is at the center of this standoff. He is trying to reduce the country’s debt. Belgium currently has one of the highest debt levels in Europe.
Just hours before the strike began, the government reached a breakthrough. De Wever’s five-party coalition agreed on a multi-year budget plan.
This new deal increases government savings. It also creates new revenue streams. For example, the plan includes hikes on value-added taxes and investment taxes.
“Work today, and reap the fruits tomorrow,” De Wever posted on social media. He welcomed the agreement.
“A Big Mountain to Climb”
The Prime Minister admitted the path ahead is difficult. The budget also covers an increase in military spending.
“We had a big mountain to climb,” De Wever stated. He conceded that everyone will feel the impact of these changes.
De Wever has been in power since February. He is trying to impose major structural reforms. These concern labor market laws, unemployment benefits, and pensions. However, divisions within his coalition have slowed down the implementation of these measures.
Unions Condemn Social Cuts
The unions strongly oppose these reforms. They argue the government is dismantling social programs.
In a press statement, the unions appealed to the Prime Minister. They asked the government to stop the cuts. Furthermore, socialist union leaders accused De Wever of showing “contempt” towards the workers.
This strike intends to pressure the political parties during their negotiations. It follows earlier protests in mid-October. Back then, tens of thousands marched through Brussels to oppose what they called “brutal” budget cuts.
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