08 Jan 2025 | 03:37 PM UTC
Belgium: Unionized teachers to strike in Flanders, protest in Brussels Jan. 13
Unionized teachers plan to strike across Flanders, protest in central Brussels, Belgium, Jan. 13. Business disruptions likely.
Unionized teachers affiliated with the Christian Education Federation (COC) plan to strike across Flanders and protest in central Brussels on Jan. 13. The labor action is to demand the protection of pensions in current collective bargaining negotiations. Demonstrators plan to gather at Albertinaplein in Brussels at 10:00 before marching to Poelaertplein. Large crowds may participate in the protest.
Unless averted, the strike may disrupt businesses by prompting increased employee absenteeism. Police will likely deploy near demonstration areas to facilitate the gathering in central Brussels and any potential picket protests near education institutions in Flanders; related transport disruptions are likely in central Brussels.
Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Plan accordingly for increased absenteeism among employees who are parents or guardians of school-aged children on Jan. 13; consider a liberal telecommuting policy for the duration of the strike.
