Since the national, conservative Prime Minister Bart de Wever formed his government in February 2025, there has been massive unrest in the Belgian labour market. All representative trade unions have protested persistently, and their actions have yielded some results. They have preserved end-of-career schemes, included temporary unemployment in pension calculations, and integrated periods of sickness or caregiving leave.
On 26 November, pickets multiplied from early morning across all sectors of economic activity and in all regions of the country. A general strike was staged following industrial actions in public services on the previous two days. Red, green, and blue flags, along with banners and placards, were visible throughout Belgium. The trade union front remains united and has been reinforced by these three days of exemplary mobilisation!
Despite some significant victories, workers will suffer serious setbacks due to the government’s reforms. Among the most concerning issues are:
• Attacks on the automatic indexation of wages, pensions, and social benefits
• An increase in the statutory retirement age to 66, and later to 67
• Financial penalties for those who need to retire early
• Deprivation of benefits for the long-term unemployed and part-time workers
• Increased flexibility on the terms of employers
• Fiscal consolidation at the expense of vulnerable groups in society
This national strike caps a year marked by continuous protest, with no month passing without a demonstration or strike. Regrettably, trade unions have been largely sidelined in political and legislative processes. Changes have been pushed through without informing or consulting social partners.
Fair, alternative policies proposed by unions, such as higher taxes on large fortunes and tech giants, have not been considered by decision-makers. They have also called for a critical review of the multi-billion-euro subsidies granted to companies. Public funds should not be distributed to shareholders in the form of dividends, which exacerbate income and wealth inequalities.
General Secretary Judith Kirton-Darling emphasises that industriAll Europe stands in firm solidarity with its Belgian affiliates. “The measures implemented and the methods used erode citizens’ trust in politicians. It is extremely regrettable that the government of De Wever fails to show greater respect for large, representative trade unions. While the strike action was necessary, we expect that the Belgian Government will listen to the voices of people on the ground and on shop floors in the future. Fiscal consolidation must be carried out justly and should not harm the weaker groups in our society.”