Belgium’s public services were partially shut down on Monday as unions staged a second day of nationwide strikes against planned government budget cuts, while stalled negotiations over a new federal budget increased pressure on Prime Minister Bart De Wever.
Rail services, public transport, public broadcasting and schools were among the services affected by the industrial action.
The strike followed a mass protest in Brussels on Friday, when thousands of people demonstrated against the government’s plans. A small group of protesters later clashed with police.
No large-scale demonstration was planned in the capital on Monday, but the strike disrupted essential services across the country.
De Wever, the leader of Belgium’s Flemish right-wing party, is facing growing pressure as coalition partners struggle to agree on a new federal budget.
The prime minister’s office said over the weekend that the coalition had failed to reach an agreement, forcing De Wever to cancel his planned State of the Union address to parliament on Tuesday while negotiations continue.
De Wever said on Thursday that painful budget measures were necessary to prevent a looming spiral of rising debt and interest costs that could leave future generations with a heavy financial burden.
Belgian media reported that an agreement could be delayed until late October or early November. A prolonged deadlock could also strain relations within the governing coalition.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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