Brussels, Belgium – International train travel through Belgium will face disruptions next week as a result of the week-long strike by the independent railway union METISP-Protect, which is set to begin at 22:00 on Sunday.
Initially expected to impact only domestic rail services, the strike has now extended to affect international routes, causing concern among passengers and operators alike.
The strike, part of an ongoing series of protests by Belgian railway unions over working conditions and staffing shortages, will last for eight days, significantly impacting train operations across the country.
While domestic rail travel will bear the brunt of the disruptions, international operators have also started announcing service reductions and cancellations.
Eurostar and Eurocity Services Affected
Eurostar, the high-speed train service connecting Belgium with France, the UK, and the Netherlands, has confirmed the cancellation of two trains between Paris and Brussels on Monday.
Affected passengers will be contacted and given the option to either exchange their tickets for another date free of charge or request a full refund, the company stated.
Eurostar also warned that further disruptions could follow, with passengers to be informed of any additional cancellations.
Dutch railway operator NS has also announced the cancellation of several Eurocity trains between Rotterdam and Brussels throughout the coming week.
These services, which provide key connections between the Netherlands and Belgium, will be unavailable for travelers relying on cross-border rail transport.
Uncertainty for Commuters and Travelers
The extension of the strike’s impact to international travel has raised concerns among passengers who depend on these routes for business, tourism, and daily commuting.
The uncertainty surrounding potential further cancellations has prompted many to seek alternative travel arrangements, including bus services and flights.
Railway unions have defended their strike action, citing deteriorating working conditions, excessive workloads, and staff shortages as key grievances.
METISP-Protect, the independent union behind the latest strike, has argued that without significant improvements in staffing levels and workplace conditions, the reliability and safety of Belgium’s rail services will continue to decline.
A Pattern of Disruptions
This latest strike is part of a broader wave of industrial action by Belgian railway workers in recent months. Previous strikes have led to major service disruptions, with unions demanding increased government investment in the railway sector.
Despite previous negotiations between unions and the Belgian government, little progress has been made in addressing workers’ demands.
The continued unrest has put pressure on the government to find a resolution that balances financial constraints with the need to maintain a functional and efficient rail network.
Looking Ahead
As the strike progresses, passengers are advised to check with their respective train operators for the latest updates on service disruptions. Eurostar and NS have assured travelers that affected ticket holders will be informed promptly of any schedule changes.
With negotiations between the unions and authorities yet to yield a breakthrough, the possibility of further disruptions remains, leaving travelers and rail operators bracing for continued uncertainty in the coming weeks.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
