General strike

Belgium’s two main union confederations, the Christian CSC/ACV and the socialist FGTB/ABVV called for a general strike on 31 March following a major demonstration in Brussels in February.

The unions are maintaining their opposition to the plans of the new coalition government, led by Bart de Wever, head of the right-wing Flemish nationalist N-VA.

They are particularly concerned at plans to cut social benefits and pensions and exclude unions from discussions with the government.