A public-sector strike called by the ACOD union began at 10 p.m. on Sunday, 11 October, and continues through Monday, 12 October. The union opposes federal government austerity measures. The action is disrupting public transport, waste collection and programming at the Flemish public broadcaster VRT. Police were present around Brussels-Central after calls for student protests circulated online.

(Staff: Belgium / Society & Public Administration)

Police presence around Brussels-Central

The police presence around Brussels-Central was increased after calls for a student demonstration circulated on social media. No large gathering had formed by the morning, and police described the situation as calm, with small groups of pupils gathering at their schools and targeted checks taking place.

Public transport disrupted

Public transport is operating with significant disruption. The original report lists interruptions to several MIVB bus routes serving central Brussels, including routes 29, 38, 46, 48, 50, 63, 65, 66, 71, 89 and 95. Tram and metro services are also affected, while De Lijn and TEC report disruption elsewhere. Passengers should check the operators’ websites or apps before travelling.

VRT broadcasts reduced programming

Rail services are reduced as well. NMBS/SNCB expected around seven in ten intercity trains to run, with fewer local and suburban S and L trains and very few peak-hour P trains. Travellers are advised to consult the journey planner for the service actually operating.

Waste collection and student actions

VRT is running a reduced schedule. Radio output is mainly music, while VRT 1 and VRT Canvas are showing archive material, shortened news bulletins and the current-affairs programme Terzake in the evening. Programmes including Thuis, Dagelijkse Kost and Blokken are not scheduled, and De Ideale Wereld is cancelled. The action also protests additional savings of €11.2 million announced by the Flemish government, on top of €16.6 million already planned. Unions warn that around 150 jobs could be affected through job losses or outsourcing.

Waste collection and student protests

Waste collection in Brussels is also disrupted. Net Brussel has asked residents to keep blue and yellow bags at home until the next collection day, and mobile recycling centres planned for Anderlecht and Ixelles have been cancelled. At ULB, students organised a partial blockade and activities opposing reforms in French-speaking higher education. ACOD members also held a picket at Schaarbeek-Vorming against the Structure 2.0 project, a VAT increase and the temporary freeze of indexation.

The strike affects several essential services, while unions continue to challenge austerity policies. The extent to which talks can resolve the dispute remains uncertain.