Police clashed with protesters in Brussels as thousands of workers, pensioners and students took to the streets to oppose proposed government spending cuts and measures they fear will erode their purchasing power.
The demonstration, organised around opposition to the government’s proposed savings package, drew trade union members and students concerned about the impact of planned reforms on wages, pensions, household finances and education.
Trade unions warned that the proposed measures could disproportionately affect workers, pensioners and low-income households. They opposed possible changes to wage indexation, value-added tax (VAT) and other policies they said could increase financial pressure on ordinary citizens.
The unions argued that wealthier members of society should make a greater contribution to efforts to address the country’s financial challenges.
Students also joined the march to protest against education spending cuts, rising fees and proposed reforms they fear could make university education less affordable.
The demonstration began peacefully, with crowds carrying placards, playing music and dancing as they marched through the Belgian capital.
However, violence later erupted near Brussels-Midi railway station, where some protesters reportedly threw objects and fireworks at police officers.
Police responded with water cannon and tear gas to disperse the crowds, while some demonstrators threw gas canisters back at officers.
Additional police units equipped with tear gas launchers were deployed, with helicopter support. Further unrest was also reported near Brussels-Central railway station.
Police said the clashes occurred on the sidelines of the demonstration and were separate from the main trade union march, which remained peaceful.
Authorities initially reported that 21 people had been detained, including 13 minors. By Friday evening, however, the number had risen to more than 100, comprising about 30 judicial arrests and 80 administrative detentions.
No confirmed casualty figures were immediately available, despite reports of clashes, fires and property damage.
The demonstration highlights growing opposition among workers and students to proposed austerity measures, particularly concerns about their potential effects on household incomes, social welfare and access to education.
