Brussels, February 13, 2025 – Belgium has come to a grinding halt as a nationwide strike disrupted key sectors, leading to flight cancellations, public transport disruptions, and widespread demonstrations.
The strike, organized by trade unions, is aimed at protesting austerity measures and labor reforms, with workers across various industries joining the movement.
Brussels Protest Draws Large Crowds
A large-scale demonstration in Brussels kicked off at 10:30 a.m., with thousands of protesters gathering at Brussels-North railway station before marching towards Brussels-Midi via the inner Ring Road.
The route was closed to traffic as authorities anticipated major congestion. The demonstration is expected to last until 2:00 p.m., with severe traffic delays reported around Rogier and Boulevard Roi Albert II.
Police have placed barbed wire along sections of the Small Ring Road to control the protest, while key tunnels, including the Annie Cordy and Reyers-Centre tunnels, have been shut down to motorists.
Severe Disruptions at Brussels Airport
One of the most significant impacts of the strike has been at Brussels Airport in Zaventem, where an estimated 430 flights were cancelled, leaving the usually bustling departure hall nearly deserted.
Spokesperson Jeffrey Franssens noted that communication efforts had successfully deterred most passengers from heading to the airport. Some airlines, such as TUI Fly, have arranged alternative transportation to other airports where flights have been redirected.
Public Transport Affected Nationwide
Public transportation services in both Flanders and Wallonia have been severely impacted. In Flanders, around 51% of De Lijn buses and trams are operational, with Antwerp and Ghent experiencing the most significant disruptions. Coastal tram services are running at about 50% capacity.
In Wallonia, TEC reported widespread disruptions, particularly in the Liège-Verviers region, where dozens of lines have been canceled or delayed. The company urged passengers to check its website and app for real-time updates.
STIB, the Brussels public transport operator, confirmed that only two metro lines (1 and 5) are operational, while tram and bus services are limited.
The disruptions have led to overcrowding on the few available lines, with additional challenges expected for those attending the Europa League match between Union Saint-Gilloise and Ajax later in the evening.
Postal and Waste Collection Services Disrupted
Bpost workers are also participating in the strike, particularly in Wallonia, where about 50% of the workforce has walked off the job. Postal services in Brussels have been affected at a lower rate (10%), while disruptions in Flanders remain minimal.
Waste collection services have also been interrupted across several communes, including Brussels and Antwerp, with local authorities advising residents to refrain from placing their rubbish on the streets.
Economic Backlash and Criticism
Business groups have voiced strong opposition to the strike, citing significant economic damage. The Federation of Belgian Companies (VBO) condemned the action, warning that it could accelerate bankruptcies and job losses.
Similarly, Voka, the Flemish business network, estimated that the strike would cost the economy tens of millions of euros and damage Belgium’s international reputation.
Government officials, including N-VA Parliamentary Chair Axel Ronse, criticized the unions, arguing that the strike undermines future economic stability.
“These protests hinder our ability to provide decent pensions, healthcare, and education for the next generation,” Ronse stated.
As Belgium grapples with the fallout from the nationwide strike, authorities are bracing for further disruptions ahead of another planned general strike on March 31.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
