Mass Protests Against Pension Reform in Belgium, Strike Grounds Road and Air Travel in Brussels

Mass Protests Against Pension Reform in Belgium, Strike Grounds Road and Air Travel in Brussels

Brussels, February 13, 2025: Thousands of citizens in Belgium took to the streets today in protest against pension reforms, marking the first day of a multi-day strike against the new government's planned pension changes. The strike has led to the suspension of all air travel across the country.

Local police reported on the social media platform X that nearly 60,000 people participated in the strike in Brussels. Protesters clashed with police outside the headquarters of the liberal center-right MR party, where police used tear gas and water cannons. Local media also reported similar clashes in front of the headquarters of the Christian Democratic party, Les Engagés. Reuters witnesses reported that protesters were setting off fireworks.

Brussels Airport authorities confirmed the cancellation of 430 flights on Thursday but expressed hope that air travel disruptions would end within a day. Protesters marched with placards bearing slogans such as "We are not lemons," and some displayed placards written in Latin, referencing Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s preference for Latin quotations. The strike also caused disruptions to public transport and postal services, with firefighters and military personnel joining the protests.

Under the new pension reforms, workers who complete 35 years of service will be rewarded after retirement, but those who retire early with less than 35 years of service will face penalties. The new system is less advantageous for low-income workers, where a lump sum was previously given based on the length of their careers.