Around 100,000 people took part in a nationwide strike and mass demonstration in Brussels on March 12, marking a year of mobilizations against the policies of the government led by Bart De Wever in Belgium.
The action, organized by major trade unions including FGTB-ABVV along with social movements, feminist organizations, and solidarity groups, protested proposed pension reforms, threats to wage protections, and increased military spending. Demonstrators argued that government plans prioritize militarization while undermining workers’ incomes and social protections.
Union leaders called for the cancellation of a proposed “bonus–malus” pension system that would penalize workers who retire before the age of 67 by reducing their pensions. According to union representatives, the policy would disproportionately affect people in physically demanding jobs who begin working earlier in life.
Protesters also defended Belgium’s wage indexation system, which automatically adjusts wages to keep pace with inflation. Labor leaders warned that weakening the mechanism would erode workers’ purchasing power at a time when the cost of living continues to rise.
Left-wing politicians, including leaders from the Workers’ Party of Belgium, said the sustained protests have already forced the government to soften some elements of its proposed reforms. Activists argue that continued pressure is necessary to prevent further cuts to pensions and social protections.
Participants also criticized the government’s plans to increase military spending, including new purchases of combat vehicles, drones, and other equipment. Many protesters argued that public funds should instead be directed toward healthcare, social services, and workers’ welfare.
Trade union leaders say the demonstrations reflect widespread frustration among workers across both public and private sectors and signal that resistance to austerity policies is likely to continue in the months ahead.
