Public transport in Brussels severely disrupted due to protest and march

Following a call by the European Trade Union Confederation, a large number of people belonging to various unions gathered in front of the Brussels Palace of Justice.

Protesters wearing green, red, orange, and blue jackets in their unions' colors and carrying placards chanted slogans against the austerity policies of EU countries.

Demonstrators, who unfurled banners reading "For jobs and public services," "Money for weapons, none for us," "We do not want austerity," "Do not touch my wage increase," and "Where is Social Europe?," marched to Luxembourg Square in front of the European Parliament.

Extensive security measures taken around the protesters were notable. Public transport in the city was severely disrupted due to the protest and march.

Because employees of the transport company in Brussels also participated in the protest, most bus, metro, and tram services were canceled.

EU member states are conducting negotiations to update the Union's fiscal rules that limit public spending and budget deficits. The changes to the rules aim to reduce rising public debt levels.

According to EU rules, under normal circumstances, member states' budget deficits should not exceed 3 percent of their GDP, and public debt should not exceed 60 percent of their GDP. When these limits are exceeded, the measures to be implemented must be reported to the European Commission, and this situation must be effectively addressed. However, EU member states decided to suspend these rules in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and budget deficits and public spending rose rapidly.

This practice continued with the Russia-Ukraine War and the subsequent energy crisis. This exceptional period is ending at the end of 2023.

Trade unions want public spending to continue without being reduced.