In brief
Brussels saw chaos as massive protests over pension reforms led to significant travel disruptions, affecting over 400 flights.
In a dramatic display of discontent, tens of thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Brussels on February 13, 2025, demanding the government reconsider its proposed pension reforms and cuts to public services. The demonstrations, part of a nationwide strike, led to a complete halt of all flights at Brussels Airport, affecting over 60,000 passengers as more than 400 flights were canceled.The strike was not limited to air travel; public transit services were also heavily disrupted. Protesters clashed with police, prompting the use of tear gas to manage the crowd. As tensions heightened, some demonstrators threw objects at officers, sparking several arrests. Local police condemned the violence, emphasizing that these actions threatened public safety during what was intended to be a peaceful protest.This outpour of unrest comes after Belgium formed a new coalition government, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever. His government, which includes five parties, aims to tackle rising pension costs against the backdrop of an aging population and strict European Union fiscal regulations. Recently, Belgium raised its retirement age from 65 to 66, with plans to increase it to 67 by 2030 for future generations, prompting significant backlash from the workforce.Workers, represented by unions like VSOA Defense, voiced their frustrations, arguing that the government's measures unfairly burden the working class. As protests unfold, the impact on daily life in Brussels further proves the growing discontent over economic policies and government accountability.
