Brussels police arrested several individuals on Tuesday morning after incidents of vandalism and arson erupted along and near the city’s small ring road. The unrest caused widespread traffic disruptions during the already-congested morning rush hour, compounded by the effects of a nationwide strike.
According to authorities, fires were reported in multiple areas across the city centre. The Brussels fire department responded early in the morning to extinguish small blazes at Place de l’Yser and Boulevard de Dixmude, both located in the northern part of Brussels.
Firefighters managed to bring the situation under control quickly, preventing the flames from spreading to nearby buildings.
As a safety precaution, the Annie Cordy, Botanique, and Rogier tunnels were temporarily closed, the Flemish Traffic Centre confirmed. The closures led to significant congestion in surrounding districts before the tunnels were reopened later in the morning.
The disturbances occurred just hours before a major demonstration organised by Belgium’s three largest trade unions. The protest, set to begin at 10:45 a.m., will see participants march from Brussels North station to Brussels Midi station, voicing discontent with the federal government’s economic policies.
Union leaders were quick to condemn the acts of vandalism, stressing that those responsible were not affiliated with the planned peaceful protest. Bert Engelaar, spokesperson for the socialist FGTB-ABVV union, denounced the destruction in strong terms.
“Those who caused this damage do not belong at our demonstration,” Engelaar told public broadcaster VRT. “Nobody wants vandalism and destruction in the streets. It defeats our purpose and makes us lose credibility. We want to be peaceful in the streets and make our voices heard responsibly.”
The unions organising the march — FGTB-ABVV, ACV-CSC, and CGSLB — are protesting against what they describe as a government policy that demands citizens “work longer and harder” while providing insufficient compensation and support.
Their message centres on themes of “imbalance and injustice,” reflecting concerns over wage stagnation, pension reforms, and tightening labour regulations. Demonstrators are also expected to highlight dissatisfaction with the government’s latest budget decisions, which unions say favour employers and high-income earners over workers and public service employees.
Local authorities have reinforced police presence along the planned protest route and at key traffic junctions to ensure public safety. Officials are urging commuters to avoid central Brussels where possible, warning of delays throughout the day.
Despite the early morning disruptions, union representatives have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a peaceful and lawful protest. “We want to send a message through unity, not destruction,” said Engelaar. “Our movement stands for justice, equality, and respect — not violence.”
The demonstration marks the latest in a series of nationwide actions reflecting growing frustration with Belgium’s socio-economic policies. As tensions rise, authorities hope the day’s events proceed without further incidents.
