Belgium faces nationwide rail shutdown as unions launch 72-hour strike

Belgium faces nationwide rail shutdown as unions launch 72-hour strike

Coordinated walkouts from 23 to 26 November will disrupt rail and public transport amid protests against Federal Government reforms

by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor


Belgium’s rail network is set to halt for three days later this month as unions escalate opposition to the Federal Government’s policies.

 

The strike will run from 22:00 local time on 23 November until the same time on 26 November.

 

The autonomous train drivers’ union, SACT, confirmed on Monday that it will join the action, aligning with the country’s three major rail unions.

 

This move forms part of a broader campaign against what unions describe as an “authoritarian” stance by the government.

 

The rail stoppage coincides with a nationwide protest organised by FGTB, CSC and CGSLB. These unions have called for a three-day coordinated strike to challenge budget cuts, among other issues.

 

Union announcements outline a phased approach:

  • Rail services will strike on Monday, 24 November
  • A walkout across all public services on Tuesday, 25 November
  • A national strike is expected to conclude on Wednesday, 26 November

 

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Source: Brussels Times