Overview

• Police estimated about 80,000 people joined the Brussels march as unions led a nationwide day of action against austerity plans.
• Brussels Airport canceled all departures and about half of arrivals after X-ray screening staff walked off the job, while Charleroi canceled all flights.
• Brussels public transport operator STIB said most metro, tram and bus lines were cut, with police reporting fires on major roads and several arrests.
• Unions are protesting planned pension changes, including higher retirement ages and penalties for early exit, as well as a two‑year limit on unemployment benefits.
• The strike followed the coalition’s failure to agree on next year’s finances, prompting a one‑week postponement of the 2026 budget presentation as the government seeks roughly €10 billion in savings.