Belgium: National public sector strike October 9-10 /update 2

Event

The labor union Centrale Générale des Services Publics (CGSP) has called upon all public sector employees to participate in a national general strike on Tuesday, October 10, to protest new government reforms. According to the CGSP, newly enforced budged cuts, a lack of investment, and attempts to privatize state-owned firms are actively hurting the public sector.

As a result, all bus, train, metro, and tram services will likely experience disruptions from 22:00 (local time) on Monday, October 9, until 22:00 on Tuesday, October 10. International rail lines will also be affected, including Eurostar trains running between Brussels and the French cities of Lille and Calais; disruptions, including delays and cancelations, may affect Thalys trains throughout the strike period.

Major public transit disruptions are likely, notably in Brussels; buses and trains connecting the city of Brussels to Brussels International Airport (BRU) may be delayed or canceled. Increased road congestion is likely in cities due to the reduced availability of public transit. The strike is notably expected to affect soccer fans set to attend the highly-anticipated World Cup qualifying game, Belgium vs. Cyprus, on Monday evening in Brussels (20:40 at the Roi Baudouin Studium).

As of October 9, the potential effect of the strike on flights and other airport operations is unknown.

Context

October 10 is a symbolic date as it coincides with Prime Minister Charles Michel’s address to lawmakers outlining his government’s policy plans for the coming year. Workers in various sectors, including education, media, local administration, transportation, and postal services, are expected to participate in the strike.

Advice

Individuals should anticipate significant transportation disruptions and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.