Brussels, 9 October, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Brussels protests escalated into violent clashes on Friday as riot police used tear gas and water cannon against masked demonstrators near Brussels Central Station. The confrontation unfolded alongside a major trade union demonstration against federal budget measures, with police estimating that approximately 30,000 people joined the wider rally.rs
The disturbances disrupted public transport and traffic across the Belgian capital. However, police and trade union representatives emphasised that those responsible for the violence were separate from the largely peaceful anti-austerity march.
Violent Clashes Break Out Near Brussels Central Station
Groups of young people, some wearing black clothing and masks, confronted police officers near the central railway station.
Witness accounts and news agency reports described stones, firecrackers and other objects being thrown towards officers. Several fires were also reported, including burning bicycles and electric scooters.
Police responded with tear gas, water cannon and baton charges to disperse those involved.
Reuters reported that 21 people were detained, including 13 minors, following the disturbances.
Belgian Police Separate Rioters From Peaceful Protesters
Belgian police stressed that the individuals involved in the confrontations were not associated with the main trade union demonstration.
In comments reported by the Associated Press, police said those responsible for the public disorder were not linked to the organised anti-austerity rally.
Trade union representatives similarly distanced themselves from the violence.
The distinction is important because most participants marched peacefully to express opposition to government economic policies.
Why Thousands Demonstrated Against Belgium’s Budget Plans
The demonstration was organised by Belgium’s two major trade union organisations, CSC-ACV and FGTB-ABVV.
Union leaders argue that proposed government budget measures could place additional financial pressure on workers, pensioners and lower-income households.
Rising living costs, education expenses and public service funding were among the concerns raised by participants.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s government maintains that fiscal reforms are necessary to address Belgium’s public finances and reduce long-term budgetary pressures.
The dispute reflects competing priorities between reducing government spending and protecting household purchasing power.
Brussels Transport and Public Services Face Disruption
The Brussels protests also affected commuters, businesses and residents across the city.
The City of Brussels announced traffic restrictions between 10:00 and 14:00 along the demonstration route, beginning at Place Albertine and ending at the Esplanade de l’Europe.
Public transport operator STIB-MIVB warned of significant interruptions to metro, tram and bus services.
Municipal authorities also confirmed that national trade union action would affect administrative services on 9 and 12 October.
What Happens Next for Belgium’s Government?
Friday’s demonstration increases attention on the federal government’s ongoing budget negotiations.
The coalition faces pressure to address public debt while responding to concerns about the social consequences of proposed spending measures.
Trade unions are seeking changes to the government’s approach, particularly regarding household incomes and public services.
Further developments will depend on the outcome of budget discussions and any additional announcements from the unions.
Meanwhile, police authorities may provide further information about those detained and the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The events highlight the challenge facing Belgian officials as they seek to advance fiscal reforms while managing public opposition and maintaining security in the capital.
