Belgium: Ongoing farmers’ protest reported in Brussels December 12

Event

Farmers from several European Union countries have gathered in Brussels as of 11:00 (local time), to demand that the Union delivers on promises made to farmers from Eastern Europe back in 2002. This includes fairer payments under the Common Agricultural Policy. Participants have gathered between the Schuman Roundabout and Parc Cinquantenaire and are expected to remain until at least 15:00. The protest is scheduled to coincide with an ongoing European Council summit.

About 30 Green Peace activists also climbed the European Council building prior to the meeting, prompting police to evacuate the building. This has interrupted the summit that was expected to begin at 15:00.

Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are to be expected in the aforementioned areas. Roadblocks cannot be ruled out prior to and following the protest due to the possible presence of tractors.  

Advice

Individuals in the Brussels are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and public gatherings, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.