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Nationwide strike in Belgium hits air and train traffic

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 13, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 27, 2026

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Crowds protesting during nationwide strike in Belgium affecting transport - Global Banking & Finance Review
Image depicting a large crowd of protesters in Belgium during a nationwide strike, impacting air and train traffic. The strike highlights public dissent against proposed pension reforms amidst ongoing government formation talks.
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BRUSSELS (Reuters) - A nationwide strike in protest against possible pension reforms crippled air and rail traffic in Belgium on Monday and many schools remained shut. Almost half of all flights at

Belgium Nationwide Strike Disrupts Air and Train Traffic

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - A nationwide strike in protest against possible pension reforms crippled air and rail traffic in Belgium on Monday and many schools remained shut.

Almost half of all flights at Brussels airport were cancelled as luggage handlers, security and other ground staff went on strike, while national train operator NMBS said it was running only a limited number of trains throughout the country.

Public transport in the capital Brussels was also heavily impacted.

Schools were shut with tens of thousands of teachers expected to join a national rally in Brussels to protest pension reforms that are being discussed by parties trying to form a new government following the June 2024 election.

Government formation talks have dragged on for months without any real progress, as the five parties at the table continue to disagree on government finances and the contested pension reforms.

(Reporting by Bart Meijer, editing by Ed Osmond)

Key Takeaways

  • Nationwide strike in Belgium affects air and rail traffic.
  • Brussels airport cancels nearly half of all flights.
  • Limited train services as NMBS staff join the strike.
  • Schools closed with teachers joining a national rally.
  • Pension reforms are a major point of contention in government talks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
The main topic is the nationwide strike in Belgium affecting air and train traffic due to protests against pension reforms.
How did the strike affect transportation?
The strike led to the cancellation of nearly half of all flights at Brussels airport and limited train services across Belgium.
Why are people protesting?
People are protesting against proposed pension reforms that are part of ongoing government formation talks.

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