Belgium’s Public Sector Faces Partial Shutdown Amid Ongoing Strikes Over Budget Cuts

Belgium's public sector faces partial shutdown as strikes continue over budget cuts. Unions protest austerity measures and pension reforms.

Editorial Desk

October 13, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Brussels, Belgium — Belgium’s public sector experienced partial disruption on Monday as unions launched a second day of nationwide strikes against proposed government budget cuts. The walkouts, organized by the socialist union CGSP/ACOD, affected key services including train networks and local transit systems.

The protests come as Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s coalition finalizes a delayed 2025 budget agreement, but tensions remain high over austerity measures and pension reforms. Unions argue that the policies threaten public services and worker benefits, leading to widespread disruptions in transportation and other essential sectors.

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Strikes are scheduled to continue through the week, with major transport providers like SNCB, STIB, De Lijn, and TEC facing ongoing challenges. The unrest highlights growing public dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to reducing national debt, as thousands of workers take to the streets to voice their concerns.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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