Belgium: Major labor unions to lead demonstration in Brussels June 20

Event

A number of major labor unions, including the General Labour Federation of Belgium (FGTB), will lead a demonstration in Brussels on June 20. Organizers are calling for an amendment to the Wage Standard Act to allow for larger wage increases. Participants will gather outside Brussels-North railway station around 10:00 before likely embarking on a march through the area.

While participation levels are unclear, union-led demonstrations in Brussels regularly draw crowds numbering in the low thousands. Authorities will likely deploy additional police to monitor and facilitate the demonstration. Large crowds and associated security measures may prompt localized transport disruptions. Additionally, increased congestion is likely at Brussels-North railway station on the morning of June 20 as demonstrators arrive and depart the area. Significant violence is not anticipated; however, isolated skirmishes between protesters and police are possible.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions in the affected area on June 20.