Belgium: Unionized workers conducting strikes and protests Feb. 14

Unionized workers in Belgium conducting strikes and protests Feb. 14; business and transport disruptions likely.

Event

The General Labour Federation of Belgium (FGTB/ABVV) is leading a day of strikes and protests Feb. 14 to denounce rising living costs and demand increased government support; the actions are organized at the provincial level. The strike is mainly affecting regional public transport services. Around 65 percent of services on the De Lijn network in Flanders are operating; many services are canceled on the TEC network in Wallonia. The public transport operator in Brussels (STIB-MIVB) states that its staff are not participating in the action but warns of possible related disruptions to timetables. The National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB) does not anticipate disruption to its services. Available services in disrupted regions are likely to be busier than usual, and increased traffic congestion, and reduced taxi availability is likely as commuters seek alternative forms of transport.

Related protests are planned in several cities. The largest will likely be in Brussels, where activists gathered at the Finance Tower from 10:00. Attendance could reach into the thousands. Additional police will deploy to monitor all demonstrations. Large crowds and associated security measures, including likely road closures and movement restrictions, will prompt localized business and transport disruptions in demonstration areas. The actions are likely to pass off peacefully, though isolated clashes with security services cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Check for public transport disruptions prior to travel Feb. 14; allow additional time to complete journeys and make alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.