Belgium is preparing for widespread disruption this week as unions launch a three-day national strike aimed at protesting government austerity plans.
Key public services and transport links are expected to be hit, with airports among the worst affected.
The industrial action responds to a package of reforms from Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s centre-right coalition that aim to cut the budget deficit by altering labour rules and overhauling unemployment benefits and pensions.
The government ratified a budget deal early on Monday, saying the measures are necessary to preserve Belgium’s welfare system.
Belgium’s public finances are under pressure: the deficit was about 4.5% of GDP at year-end and debt stood near 105% of GDP, well above EU guideline limits of 3% for deficits and 60% for debt.
The scale of the fiscal shortfall is a central argument for the proposed reforms.
The strike unfolds in stages.
On Monday rail services and other public transport were hit, with the national operator SNCB running far fewer trains and several Eurostar connections to Paris cancelled.
Tuesday brings schools, day‑care centres and hospitals into the action, and Wednesday is slated as a full general strike.
Both main airports will be severely affected on Wednesday.
Brussels-Zaventem warns of major disruption and has said all departing flights will be cancelled, with some incoming services also at risk.
Charleroi says it will not operate scheduled departures or arrivals during the general strike day.
City and regional transport providers have also warned commuters of interruptions across the three days.
De Lijn in Flanders has announced reduced bus and tram services, and Eurostar says some international routes have already experienced knock‑on delays.
Unions, led by the FGTB, say they moved to strike after earlier demonstrations failed to sway the government.
Their demands include fairer pension arrangements, a wealth levy, a tax on large digital companies and clearer scrutiny of business subsidies.
A recent day of action against violence towards women has been linked into the broader mobilisation.
Officials are urging travellers and commuters to check with airlines, rail operators and local authorities before setting out.
With the action peaking on Wednesday, anyone planning travel through Belgium should prepare for cancellations and seek alternatives where possible.
