Major union action planned for 27 June

Belgium’s major trade unions are planning another nationwide day of strike action for 27 June in protest against the policies of the incoming federal government.

“Social security is under attack, wages are virtually frozen and public services are being subjected to cuts,” the ABVV union said in a statement.

“At the same time, we’re seeing corporate profits soar and inequality increase. We oppose this policy of social dismantling and are calling for a major day of action.”

The action will be focused on Brussels, though further details – such as whether it will include a march or demonstration – have not yet been decided. A strike notice will be submitted to allow people to participate in the action.

In the meantime, another action will take place much sooner: a public services strike is planned for 20 May and a demonstration on 22 May.

Prime minister Bart De Wever (N-VA) said union actions would not make him change plans. Unions nevertheless intend to keep at it.

“De Wever can say that the actions will not change anything, but at the beginning of the year we already proved that protesting can lead to changes,” said Jan Van Wesemael of the ACOD-CGSP union. “We are not giving up the fight.”