Flights halted and public transit disrupted as tens of thousands march through Brussels in protest.
Published On 14 Oct 2025
A nationwide strike in Belgium has brought flights to a standstill and severely disrupted public transportation, as citizens protest against government austerity proposals.
Authorities reported that around 80,000 demonstrators gathered in central Brussels on Tuesday, voicing strong opposition to planned reductions in social welfare benefits.
While the majority of the rally remained peaceful, clashes erupted in some areas where law enforcement deployed tear gas, and protesters ignited flares and smoke devices. Several individuals were taken into custody during these confrontations, according to reports from The Associated Press.
Protesters brandished red signs emblazoned with the number 67, symbolizing resistance to the government’s intention to raise the retirement age. The slogans demanded, “Pension rights at 65.”
Other participants displayed placards featuring an image of Prime Minister Bart De Wever, accompanied by the phrase “accused of pension theft.”
“The outlook is bleak,” expressed Chantal Desmet, a 59-year-old participant, to AFP. “The government must listen to our concerns.”
Brussels International Airport Cancels All Departures
Strikes by security personnel at Brussels International Airport led to the cancellation of all outbound flights, while the city’s metro, bus, and tram services experienced significant reductions, as confirmed by the public transit authority STIB.
This demonstration marks the latest in a series of protests this year opposing Prime Minister De Wever’s coalition government, which is grappling with a budget shortfall that breaches European Union fiscal regulations. The administration aims to implement approximately $12 billion in savings through pension and healthcare reforms.
Trade unions, wielding considerable influence, have spearheaded the nationwide strikes, vehemently opposing the government’s austerity agenda.
Thierry Bodson, head of the FGTB union representing 1.5 million members, told RTBF radio, “Pensions are the core issue driving people to mobilize.”
The CSC union criticized the government’s promises, stating, “They pledged more secure employment and higher purchasing power. It’s all empty rhetoric. Once again, the burden falls on ordinary citizens, not the wealthy,” urging widespread participation in the strike.
The escalating demonstrations place mounting pressure on De Wever, who has vowed to reduce the deficit without increasing taxes but is encountering difficulties finalizing the budget for the upcoming year.
On Monday, the coalition government failed to reach consensus on the budget, compelling the prime minister to delay a crucial parliamentary address originally planned for Tuesday.
