Public transportation strikes erupted across Europe this month as workers protested against government austerity measures impacting service conditions and job security. Belgium and France are particularly affected, with responses from transportation providers detailing expected disruptions and compensation plans.
Brussels Airport has reported major disruptions to air traffic scheduled for February 12 and 13, 2025, due to industrial action across Belgium. Skeyes, the Belgian air navigation service provider, has announced there will be no air traffic for 24 hours, starting from 10:00 PM on February 12 to 10:00 PM on February 13. This strike involves ground handlers and security staff, prompting cancellations and rescheduling of flights. “Given the expected impact, a large number of flights will be canceled or rescheduled,” Brussels Airport officials announced, requesting passengers to avoid travel to the airport during this period.
Commuters also face significant challenges as local transport systems announce disruptions. The Flemish transport operator, De Lijn, is assessing disruption levels based on staff availability, and Wallonia's TEC network is likely to experience changes as well. STIB, the Brussels public transport authority, cautions riders of significant disturbances on their services, attributing these to the national strike organized by trade unions opposing government reforms.
The national strikes follow extensive demonstrations against the Arizona coalition government's proposed employment reforms, which include pension adjustments, salary freezes, extended working hours, and austerity cuts to public services. These measures have been labeled by the ABVV union as “a frontal assault on the entire world of work,” prompting unified action among multiple trade unions across Belgium.
Meanwhile, France has also felt the effects of labor disputes, especially noted in the Île-de-France region. Since November 7, 2024, Cergy-Pontoise's bus network has been significantly disrupted due to conflicts between management and staff at Francilité Seine et Oise. Approximately 80,000 users were affected by the strike, leaving them with limited transportation options for three months before services were partially resumed.
To address the inconvenience caused by the strikes, Île-de-France Mobilités has initiated a compensation plan for affected passengers. Starting February 27, 2025, holders of various travel tickets—including Navigo and Imagine R—will be eligible for refunds equivalent to three months' travel expenses. Refund conditions stipulate the pass must have been valid for at least one month during the strike, and users must reside, work, or study within the affected areas.
The compensation for Navigo pass holders amounts to approximately €261.60, providing some relief for those grappling with the extended transportation disruptions. Authorities have set up platforms enabling passengers to access their refunds easily, affirming their commitment to supporting users affected by the strikes.
These strikes across Europe reflect increasing discontent among workers under financial strain and signal potential for continued industrial action as unions push back against perceived government overreach and austerity policies.