Belgium is bracing for widespread travel disruptions as the Joint Trade Union Front organizes a massive protest on Thursday, February 13, against the newly formed Federal Government agreement, dubbed the 'Arizona' plan. This national strike, which is anticipated to generate significant chaos across various transportation systems, signifies deepening discontent among workers and unions.
Leading the charge are the three major trade unions – the socialist ABVV/FGTB, liberal ACLVB/CGSLB, and Christian ACV/CSC. Their goal is to gather thousands of protesters who will march through Brussels, commencing around 10:30 am near the Brussels-North railway station, heading toward Brussels-Midi. "We are expecting a large turnout. Unions are actively calling on members to take to the streets," stated Günther Blauwens, president of the Flemish railway union ACOD Spoor, as reported by The Brussels Times.
Blauwens noted the growing anger among union members, explaining, "there is even more anger now; many feel cheated." Following previous protests, where around 30,000 people participated, the unions aim to double this number on the 13th of February as they seek to amplify their message against perceived injustices stemming from the government's new policies.
While train services are expected to run as per their usual schedule – with ACOD Spoor opting not to submit a strike request to the national railway operator SNCB – the train service provider cautions commuters to plan journeys carefully. They anticipate heavy passenger loads, particularly toward Brussels. The SNCB has advised travelers to use their website or app to check for real-time updates.
Brussels’ public transport operator, STIB, is preparing for disruptions as well. Spokesperson Laurent Vermeersch confirmed staff are likely to strike, which mirrors the scenario from the previous month when only Metro line 1 operated effectively. "We encourage people to seek alternative solutions for their travel in Brussels," Vermeersch added, highlighting the need for commuters to find other means of transportation.
Further north, public transport operator De Lijn is also gearing up for delays and cancellations. The operator announced fewer bus and tram services would be operational due to union participation. Nonetheless, they are working on providing updated schedules and options through their online platforms.
Travelers planning to fly will find the situation equally bleak. Both Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport confirmed they will not operate any departing passenger flights on February 13, citing significant participation from handling and security staff as the reason for this decision. Brussels Airport released the following statement: "To assure the safety of passengers and staff, we have decided, in consultation with the airlines, not to operate any departing passenger flights on February 13."
Similar sentiments were echoed by Charleroi Airport officials, who noted the cancellation of all departing flights but acknowledged the likelihood of incoming Schengen flights still being conducted. Passengers have been advised not to travel to the airports and to check with their airlines for updating rebooking options.
"Airlines will contact passengers whose flights have been impacted, but we ask passengers not to come to the airport on the day of the strike," indicated Brussels Airport representatives. It’s clear from all sectors involved – rail, bus, and air travel – the strike will have sweeping effects, and officials urge travelers to secure alternative plans.
Cancelling private transport services, Bpost postal workers are also expected to participate, albeit to less severe extents than education staff where fewer personnel are projected to mobilize compared to January's events. Consequently, school activities will not face the same level of disruption as witnessed previously.
Another public service affected by the forthcoming strike is rubbish collection. Brussels Propreté has cautioned residents not to put their garbage out on the streets before normal collection times on February 13, as following the strike no collections are likely. Residents are recommended to save their waste for subsequent pickup to prevent overflow on city streets.
The February 13 strike marks the third installment of what the unions have termed the "Arizona Action Plan," tied to protests on the 13th day of each month. This demonstration is being portrayed as the beginning of many future protests aimed at holding the new Federal Government accountable, as Blauwens suggests it could lead to "a marathon of protests." The growing unrest indicates substantial challenges ahead for both the government and the unions, as they navigate their differing agendas.