Belgium student protests escalate in Liège over education reforms

Student protests have escalated in the French-speaking community of Belgium, particularly in Liège, driven by grievances over the education system and inspired by similar movements in France. Demonstrators are protesting against rising tuition fees—which have increased from 835 to 1,194 euros for many—as well as overcrowded classrooms, lack of educational materials, and deteriorating school infrastructure including issues with heating and sanitation.

In Liège, demonstrations have led to violent clashes with police, resulting in dozens of arrests (with some reports citing over 100 detainees) and injuries to law enforcement. Protesters have been accused of property damage, including broken shop windows and arson, prompting police to use tear gas and water cannons. In response to the unrest, local authorities issued warnings to avoid city centers and advised businesses to close early.

To address the rising tensions, Belgian Education Minister Valérie Glatigny met with a delegation of students from various cities, including Liège and Namur, to discuss educational inequalities and recent reforms. Students expressed a desire for more direct involvement in policy debates that affect their future and learning conditions.