On March 31, 2025, a national strike organized by unions FGTB and CSC will bring Belgium to a standstill as workers protest against the new federal government's policies. The unions have labeled the government's agreement a "declaration of war" against the labor force, igniting widespread discontent across various sectors.
Union leaders are calling for a massive mobilization to address critical issues such as decent pensions, sustainable careers, enhanced purchasing power, and quality public services. Daniel Richard, the regional secretary of FGTB Verviers-Ostbelgien, emphasized that the government's actions are undermining the social pact established in 1944, which aimed to secure social welfare and public services for all citizens. "The entire general policy statements represent a challenge to the social pact of 1944, which was forged during the war by resistance forces," Richard stated.
The discontent is echoed by Jean-Marc Namotte, secretary of CSC Liège-Verviers-Ostbelgien, who criticized the government's approach, claiming it shifts the burden onto ordinary workers and vulnerable groups. "The Arizona coalition is destroying our rights," he exclaimed, asserting that the agreement threatens public services through announced budget cuts and further weakens social security.
As the strike day approaches, significant disruptions are anticipated. On March 31, no buses or trains will operate, and mail distribution will be severely impacted. Many local administrations and schools will also feel the effects, with numerous hospital staff members indicating they will participate in the strike. In the private sector, companies such as Spa Monopole, Delacre, Corman, and others are expected to come to a halt.
In the German-speaking Community, public transport will also be disrupted, with buses not running and awareness campaigns planned in Eupen, Saint-Vith, and La Calamine. Hospitals in these areas are preparing for a strong mobilization, while several schools will close or have limited operations. Major companies, including Hydro Raeren and the Walhorn dairy, will also be affected.
The strike is not limited to public services. In Brussels, waste collection will be disrupted as Brussels-Propreté anticipates significant service interruptions. Residents are advised to leave their trash bags out for collection, although catch-up rounds will be organized later. Other waste services, including collections from businesses and recycling facilities, may also experience delays.
In the province of Luxembourg, joint actions by the CSC and FGTB will include distributing leaflets in various locations, including major commercial zones and schools. The unions are targeting multiple companies, highlighting their demands for better pensions, purchasing power, and quality public services. They assert that since the establishment of the Arizona government, unfavorable conditions for workers have continued to escalate.
Further complicating the situation, all flights scheduled to depart from Charleroi and Zaventem airports on March 31 will be canceled due to insufficient staffing to ensure safety during the strike. Passengers are being contacted by their airlines regarding rebooking or refunds, with both airports expressing regret over the disruption to travel plans.
In the education sector, schools will operate at reduced capacity, with the CGSP-Enseignement confirming that significant mobilization is expected. The CSC has also urged its members to join the strike, indicating that many schools will face disruptions. However, school administrations are required to accommodate students unless there is a complete absence of teachers.
In anticipation of the strike, the unions plan to set up pickets at various companies, including Lotus and the Chimay brewery. Public services will also participate in the movement, leading to closures at several administrative offices and community services.
Frédéric Michel, co-president of the FGTB Wapi-Mons-Borinage, explained the rationale behind the strike: "We do not want to impact the population, but rather target the businesses so that the message reaches the government. We urge people to avoid traveling as traffic and public transport will be heavily disrupted." This sentiment reflects the unions' commitment to ensuring that their message is heard loud and clear.
As the strike day approaches, the unions are preparing for a major mobilization across the country. They are determined to make their voices heard in response to what they view as an anti-social agenda from the federal government. The stakes are high, and with widespread participation expected, the impact of the strike on March 31 will likely resonate throughout Belgium.
The upcoming national strike is not just a protest; it represents a critical juncture for workers across Belgium as they confront the challenges posed by the new government's policies. With the unions united in their efforts, the outcome of this strike could shape the future of labor relations and social welfare in the country.
