Workers in Belgium are experiencing increased social unrest due to deteriorating living conditions driven by rising inflation and austerity measures. The article highlights a recent national strike involving over 80,000 workers protesting low wages, high energy costs, and government policies perceived as favoring the wealthy. Key sectors participating include transport, public services, and manufacturing.
This surge in working-class mobilization is occurring amidst a broader European context of escalating militarism, particularly driven by the war in Ukraine. The Belgian government’s support for NATO and increased military spending are drawing criticism as resources are diverted from essential social programs.
Furthermore, the article criticizes the trade unions for what it claims is a deliberate effort to contain and demobilize the working class. It alleges that unions are allowing cost-of-living raises and other measures to lag far behind inflation, and that they are not fully mobilizing their membership to fight against austerity and militarism. The author argues that a new, independent working-class movement is necessary to challenge both economic inequality and the drive towards war.
find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/03/31/mnns-m31.html