For today, the Christian and the Socialist Union called for a nationwide general strike to protest against the plans of the newly formed neolib government.
The plans include severe budget cuts in the public sector (health education, social security), as well as retirement funds, public transport, wages and an increase in military spending.
There have been two big strikes with rallies in Brussels yet, but this is the first general strike of the year. Picket lines throughout the country in many different sectors. Almost half of schools are closed, half of public transport is not departing, troubles in the airport and the harbors.
I’m striking myself despite working at the union and will probably visit a couple of different picket lines in the city.
Sad news as a pick up truck drove through one of the picket lines leaving 2 people injured. Not sure if it was intentional but given that one of them was dragged along for 30 meters I fear it was.
The difference between Belgium and the US is so striking - while US workers are docile in the face of fascism, Belgian workers rise against a neoliberal project that’s already implemented in most parts of the world. More power to you and unions!
It’s one of the few European countries willing to at least put up some fight
The difference between Belgium and Seppoland literally is striking in this case…
:kelly:
I heard that their communist party is doing a good job there, one of their members is active here. What is their role in the general strike?
That member would be me (among some other users). The strike was called by the unions so no initiative from the party but the cadres went to their local picket lines to support and talk to the strikers. Always good to show you have their back.
