Belgium is preparing for widespread disruption this week as unions launch a three-day national strike that will culminate in a full general stoppage on Wednesday.
The action is aimed at government plans to cut public spending by overhauling labour rules and reshaping unemployment and pension systems.
The industrial action begins with transport on Monday, when national rail operator SNCB expected to run roughly one in three trains and several Eurostar services between Brussels and Paris were cancelled.
Eurostar also warned that some international services could face knock-on delays.
On Tuesday schools, creches and parts of the public health system join the strike, bringing more public services to a near-standstill.
Local authorities are already warning of interrupted services across cities and regions.
Wednesday will see the strike widen into a general action covering all sectors, including air travel.
Brussels-Zaventem and Charleroi airports have told passengers that they expect major disruption and will cancel departing flights; Charleroi said it could not operate scheduled arrivals or departures that day.
Airports said some ground and security staff were expected to take part in the industrial action, which could also lead to incoming flight cancellations.
Transport operator De Lijn in Flanders has signalled reduced bus and tram services throughout the period.
Unions, led by the FGTB, say the measures are a response to what they call threats to fair pensions and social protections.
Their list of demands includes a rebalanced wealth tax, levies on large digital firms and greater transparency over corporate subsidies.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever, who formed a centre-right coalition in February, argues the spending changes are needed to rein in Belgium’s rising debt and preserve the welfare system.
Belgium’s deficit was about 4.5% of GDP last year and public debt stood above 100% of GDP, well above EU recommended limits.
The government reached a budget pact early on Monday, saying it was essential to ensure fiscal stability.
Protest organisers counter that previous demonstrations have been ignored, prompting the current rolling action.
Passengers planning travel to or from Belgium this week are advised to check with carriers and airports for the latest updates and to expect significant delays or cancellations, particularly on Wednesday.
