Belgium is preparing for major nationwide disruption next week as trade unions launch three consecutive days of strike action from 24 to 26 November. The coordinated movement, led by ACV-CSC, FGTB-ABVV and CGSLB-ACLVB, is the latest step in a long-running protest against government socio-economic reforms.
Unions argue recent federal measures threaten pensions, wages, working conditions, and social protections. They insist that pressure must intensify to push the government into revising what they describe as “social dismantling.” A full national strike is scheduled for 26 November, involving workers from both public and private sectors.
Railway and Public Transport Severely Affected
Belgium’s national railway operator, SNCB, expects significant disruptions throughout the strike. Reduced services will begin at 10 p.m. on 23 November and continue until the end of 26 November. Alternative trains will run depending on available staff, though passengers are advised to consult journey planners for the most accurate schedules.
Eurostar is still assessing the potential impact on international services, with more clarity expected soon. The uncertainty has already prompted travellers to reconsider or rearrange plans.
In Brussels, transport operator STIB-MIVB warns of major disruptions across metro, tram, and bus networks. Exact service levels will be announced only the afternoon before each strike day. Travellers are encouraged to use the Floya app to find alternative routes or plan additional travel time.
Flemish operator De Lijn also anticipates limited tram and bus services from 24 to 26 November. Although updated schedules will be published gradually from 22 November, last-minute cancellations remain likely. TEC services in Wallonia expect similar challenges, with updated timetables available from early on 24 November.
Flights Cancelled and Airports on Alert
Brussels Airport has taken the unprecedented step of cancelling all departing flights on 26 November due to staffing shortages. Arriving flights may also face delays or cancellations. Airlines will communicate directly with passengers regarding rebooking options or refunds.
The impact on Brussels South Charleroi Airport is still under review. During the previous nationwide strike in October, all its flights were cancelled, raising concerns that similar measures could be repeated. Smaller airports in Ostend and Antwerp have not yet confirmed their operational status.
Public Services Face Interruptions
Municipal administrative centres, including Brussels’ Brucity complex, expect significant staff shortages throughout the three-day action. Residents may encounter delays for appointments, documentation requests, and civil services. Courts in Brussels plan to remain operational, although case delays may occur if participants arrive late due to transport disruptions.
Waste collection company Bruxelles Propreté has not yet announced how rubbish services will be affected. In past strikes, residents were advised to follow standard bin collection schedules unless otherwise notified.
Postal services at bpost may also be delayed, although the company has mobilised volunteers to minimise disruptions. Major supermarket chains, including Delhaize, expect limited impact on daily operations.
Teachers and Police Join Growing Movement
The education sector will join the strike on 25 and 26 November. Teachers—already mobilised earlier this month against austerity measures—warn that reforms are weakening the quality of instruction and workplace conditions.
Police officers are also participating after union CGSP submitted a strike notice for all three days. Officers cite deteriorating working environments, staffing shortages and insufficient recognition.
Unions Demand Government Response
Unions stress that their demands—including reversing pension penalties, ending unconditional corporate subsidies and introducing taxes on large fortunes—remain unanswered. They argue that workers’ rights and social protections are eroding while economic pressures escalate.
With large-scale disruptions imminent, Belgian residents and travellers are urged to monitor updates closely and prepare alternative arrangements. As the nation braces for the impact, union leaders insist the strikes will continue until meaningful dialogue and tangible reforms are offered by the federal government.
