Belgium: Additional public sector workers to strike March 9-10 /update 1

Additional public sector workers in Belgium to strike March 9-10; significant disruptions to public services and transport likely.

Event

Three major unions representing public sector workers in Belgium plan to stage a 24-hour nationwide strike from 22:00 March 9-22:00 March 10. The purpose of the action is to denounce the alleged underfunding of public services. Related demonstrations are possible in urban centers.

The strike is likely to have the most impact on public transport services. The Belgian National Railway Company (SNCB) anticipates significant disruption to its domestic services; SNCB expects limited disruption to international rail connections but advises passengers to use alternative local cross-border trains where available. Public transport operators in Brussels (STIB/MIVB), Wallonia (TEC), and Flanders (De Lijn) anticipate their networks will be impacted by the strike action, likely resulting in delays and cancelations to bus, tram, metro, and local rail services nationwide. Increased congestion is likely on available services and on alternative means of transport. Lingering disruptions are possible beyond the end of the strike as transport operators reposition rolling stock.

The strike could impact other public services, including education, healthcare, and local government services. However, any disruption is likely to be limited as unions representing those services specifically have not confirmed their participation in the strike.

Striking workers could stage related demonstrations in urban centers; likely locations for gatherings are central squares and thoroughfares, outside government offices, and outside transport company headquarters. Additional police will likely deploy to monitor any gatherings; related security measures could prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Any demonstrations are likely to pass off peacefully, though isolated clashes with security services cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Confirm all public transport schedules prior to travel March 9-10; allow extra time to reach destinations and make alternative travel arrangements where necessary. Confirm all public sector appointments March 10. 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.