Strikes against pension plans cause widespread disruption across Belgium
Unions have stopped work in several sectors on Monday, causing widespread disruption to public transport, waste management, prison services and education. The unions are protesting against the government's pension plans.
The unions fear that Belgium's potential next government, currently being formed by Bart De Wever, will introduce lower pensions, less favourable conditions for pensioners and longer careers. They are gathering in Brussels to protest against the government's plans.
The impetus for the strikes comes mainly from the education sector, which has few fringe benefits apart from high pensions. Teachers see their generous pensions as compensation for their low wages, and unions claim that some teachers would lose up to 900 euros a month under the current plans.
According to the unions, more than 25,000 of the protesters marching in Brussels work in the education sector, accounting for 90 per cent of the total turnout.
'Premature' strikes
The strike is notable because the unions are protesting against measures that have not yet been finalised. Les Engagés leader Maxime Prévot said on Thursday that while he found it bizarre to strike while the new government was still being formed, the pension plans will include "measures that will inevitably upset some people".
Employers' organisation VOKA criticised the unions, saying the strikes were "premature and reckless". "Businesses are also being disrupted today and this is damaging the whole economy," the organisation said.
"Businesses are also being disrupted today and this is damaging the whole economy"
Widespread disruption
The disruption covers many sectors: schools are understaffed or closed, waste collection has been postponed and trains and flights have been delayed.
Around 40 per cent of flights at Brussels Airport have been cancelled as security staff and baggage handlers are on strike. Charleroi Airport announced that all afternoon departures would be cancelled.
Meanwhile, SNCB drastically reduced the number of trains on Monday, affecting both national and international travel. Some demonstrators even missed the start of the protest because of the reduced service.
The demonstration began at 10.00 in Brussels at Place de l'Albertine, starting a march through the capital.
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