On 31 March, Belgian workers will take to the streets in a nationwide General Strike to resist the devastating austerity measures imposed by the new “Arizona” government. ETF stands firmly with the Belgian Trade Union Confederations FGTB/ABVV and CSC/ACV, and all workers fighting to defend their rights, public services, their pensions and fair working conditions.
The government’s attacks are relentless. Cuts to pensions mean working longer for less. Labour market reforms push flexibility to the extreme, benefiting employers while leaving workers with even greater insecurity. Public services are being hollowed out, and the burden of these austerity measures falls hardest on those who can least afford it, especially women, pensioners, and the unemployed. Despite promises of improved purchasing power, wages and conditions are under attack across the board.
Transport workers are particularly affected, facing drastic budget cuts, job insecurity, and the erosion of collective bargaining rights. At a time when Belgium should be investing in its workforce and public services, this government is taking the country in the wrong direction.
Workers keep Belgium moving. They deserve respect, fair conditions, and a government that listens. ETF urges the Belgian authorities to abandon these destructive policies and engage in real social dialogue. We stand in full solidarity with our affiliates and all Belgian workers in their fight for justice.