Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched in Brussels on Thursday (12 March) to protest economic reforms introduced by Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s conservative government.
Police estimated about 80,000 participants, while unions claimed more than 100,000 joined the rally. The protest coincided with strike action that disrupted public services and forced Belgium’s two main airports to cancel all departing flights due to staff shortages.
Unions say the reforms will worsen living standards as energy and fuel costs rise.
Key developments
• Pension reform raises the age for a full pension to 67 by 2030, with early retirement options gradually removed.
• Parliament approved a policy limiting unemployment benefits to two years, after which lower social security payments apply.
• Union leader Marie-Helene Ska, secretary-general of the Christian CSC, said many workers fear declining purchasing power.
• Police detained 50 people after minor vandalism during an otherwise peaceful march.
Addressing parliament, Prime Minister Bart De Wever said the government would continue with the reforms, arguing they are necessary for Belgium’s long-term economic stability.
ℹ️ Euractiv
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