Workers and their unions are on general strike across Belgium to face down a sweep of anti-worker measures in the coalition agreement of the government.
Pension restrictions, annulment of negotiated overtime bonusses, demonstration bans and forcing trade unions to report on their strike funds. These are only a few of the measures the Belgian government coalition agreement implies.
Solidarity with all the workers on #GeneralStrike in Belgium today. Brussels is radiant: pickets at every corner, everyday heroes taking a collective stand to defend dignity at work. ETUC leadership and staff were with them out on the pickets this morning.
— European Trade Unions (@etuc-ces.bsky.social) March 31, 2025 at 11:50 AM
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These measures did not feature in the election manifestos of the parties who have come to power, a number of which had instead promised an increase in purchasing power. But workers and their trade unions have shown that this will not pass.
Following a huge demonstration last month of over 100,000 people, today’s general strike shows a major determination to hold this government to account by working people.
ETUC General Secretary Esther Lynch said:
“The determination we witnessed today on the pickets lines is rock solid. The show of unity that the trade union movement of Belgium is showing is truly inspiring. This is our strength. United we will not be defeated.
“And it is working: the government has already changed its tune on some of its early intentions. They are putting out feelers to test out which workers they can pick off first but workers are putting up a wall of unity.
“Speaking to workers today, it is clear that they consider that an injury to one is an injury to us all. People know it is an uphill battle but they also know that dignity of work can only be maintained by union pride and trade union colours were flying high and proud today.”
