Clashes in Brussels as About 30,000 March Against Belgium's Spending Cuts
Unions and students rallied on October 9 against planned savings on wages, pensions and education. Union leaders said the rioters had nothing to do with their march.
Police clashed with protesters in Brussels on Friday, October 9, 2026, as thousands joined a national demonstration against the Belgian government's planned spending cuts. Police estimated the turnout at about 30,000; other reports described tens of thousands.
What happened
The march, organised by Belgium's trade unions, passed through central Brussels largely peacefully, with union members in their organisations' colours. Clashes broke out between police and a group of protesters during the day. Union leaders said the rioters had nothing to do with their rally.
Students also joined, protesting against cuts to education, higher fees and reforms they fear will make university less affordable.
What the protesters oppose
The unions fear that the government's savings package will hit workers, pensioners and low-income households hardest. Their objections include:
- possible changes to automatic wage indexation, the system that raises wages in line with prices;
- pension reforms;
- changes to VAT and other measures that affect purchasing power.
They argue that wealthier people should contribute more to fixing the public finances.
A year of protest
This was not a one-off. A national demonstration on May 12, 2026 drew between 40,000 and 70,000 people, and an earlier one in March drew between 80,000 and 100,000, according to estimates reported at the time. Strikes have repeatedly disrupted transport and flights.
Why it matters
Like France and Italy, Belgium carries high public debt, and its government argues that cuts are needed to bring it under control. Brussels is also home to the European Union's main institutions, so protests there are closely watched across Europe, where several governments face the same choice between reducing deficits and protecting living standards.
For Indian travellers and students heading to Belgium, strikes and demonstrations can disrupt flights, trains and city transport at short notice. Check with airlines and operators before travelling.
Sources
This article draws on the following reporting. Dates are when each source was originally published.
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