Belgium Sees Nationwide Protests Over Pension Reforms and Rail Privatization

Tens of thousands demonstrated as unions opposed government plans to cut pensions and reorganize the railway system.

Over 30,000 people marched in Brussels on January 13, 2025, protesting proposed pension cuts and rail privatization by the incoming coalition government.
The planned reforms include raising the retirement age to 67 by 2030 and eliminating early retirement options for certain professions, such as railway workers.
The strike caused significant disruptions, with 40% of flights at Brussels Airport canceled, all afternoon flights at Charleroi Airport grounded, and only one-third of trains running nationwide.
Unions criticized the government’s projected €3 billion in pension savings, arguing it would harm workers while proposing increased employer contributions instead.
Protesters also opposed the regionalization of Belgium's railway system and the potential elimination of HR Rail, warning it could lead to job losses and worsened worker conditions.