Belgium disrupted by nationwide strike over austerity cuts

A 24-hour nationwide strike crippled Belgium’s airports, transit networks and public services on Monday, as unions walked out to protest government austerity cuts to welfare and pensions.

A 24-hour nationwide strike in Belgium on Monday disrupted flights, public transport and other key services as airport staff and other workers protested impending budget cuts.

Organised by Christian and socialist trade unions, the walkout targeted the federal government’s austerity programme, which would trim unemployment benefits, pensions and a range of social services.

The action brought wide-ranging interruptions to both public and private sectors, with airport security and baggage handlers’ stoppages causing the greatest impact on air travel.

Union leaders urged the government to rethink the cuts, arguing the measures would fall hardest on workers and the most vulnerable citizens.

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