In Brussels, hundreds of protesters clashed with police on Friday during an anti-austerity rally organized by trade unions. Protesters, wearing masks and black clothing, threw stones and other objects at the police, and anti-police slogans echoed in the streets.
Attacks on Buses and Fires
A reporter witnessed two buses being attacked after passengers were evacuated. Protesters broke windows and pulled out seats. Meanwhile, youths set fire to trash, rental bicycles, and scooters.
Escalation of Tensions and Police Response
According to the police, officers used water cannons and tear gas as youths on the fringes of the rally attacked them with sticks and bottles. The police stated: "Several hundred youths had gathered with the protesters. The atmosphere gradually became more tense, leading to serious disruptions of public order." In an initial update, the police reported that about 20 people, mostly teenagers, had been arrested.
The police also stated that the main trade union rally proceeded peacefully. Before the march, Bert Engler, the union leader, urged protesters to stay away from the gathering, writing: "These individuals have no connection to the message that thousands of others are bringing to the streets."
Background of Protests and Economic Issues
This rally took place with between 30,000 and 50,000 participants and was part of broader union protests against planned austerity measures. Belgium is under pressure due to significant public debt and a persistent budget deficit. The center-right government led by Alexander De Croo is attempting to save 10 billion euros by 2029.
Unions have called for increasing taxes on the wealthiest instead of cutting spending in areas like healthcare and raising VAT. The clashes in Brussels followed a tense week in Liège, where authorities banned public gatherings. In that city, over 200 people were arrested and dozens of police officers were injured.
