Belgium national strike disrupts public services and VRT

A national strike organized by socialist unions is causing widespread disruptions across Belgium. The industrial action is a protest against budget cuts imposed by the Flemish government and potential federal budget interventions.

Public services are heavily impacted. The public broadcaster VRT has significantly altered its programming; VRT 1 and VRT Canvas are broadcasting archive programs and shortened news bulletins, while radio stations are primarily playing non-stop music. Popular programs such as ‘Blokken’ and ‘Thuis’ have been canceled. Ketnet is limited to pre-programmed content.

Transportation is also facing major delays and cancellations. The NMBS reports that three out of ten intercity trains are not running, with many local and suburban services also canceled. Public transport operators De Lijn, TEC, and MIVB are operating with fewer vehicles. Additional disruptions are expected in schools, local government offices, postal services via Bpost, and waste collection. Further actions are to be decided on November 9.