In just a few days, the grassroots in Belgium made their voices heard. On October 9th, 50,000 workers and a large number of young people marched against austerity. On October 10th, across Europe and in Belgium, thousands took to the streets in solidarity with the Palestinian people, demanding that their governments completely sever ties with Israel. On October 11th, 60,000 people marched for the climate in Brussels. And on October 12th, public-sector workers were on strike and took action. Four protests, one common cause: that of the working class in Belgium, which refuses to foot the bill for a system that benefits a small minority, and which also refuses to remain complicit in an apartheid state. They thought they could impose their antisocial measures without resistance. They were wrong.

Peter Mertens is an author, political strategist, Member of Parliament, and General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Belgium. To connect with an international audience, Peter has launched new social media accounts featuring English-language content focused on global issues. Give him a follow and stay connected. Just as our struggles are. Instagram: www.instagram.com/petermertens_int YouTube: www.youtube.com/@petermertensinternational Multilingual social media: X (Twitter): www.x.com/peter_mertens TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@peter.mertens

Amidst the chaos of a world falling apart, hope is born. And few places radiate that hope as much as ManiFiesta, the Festival of Solidarity. 🔥 For two days, we celebrated, danced, laughed, played, debated and tore the world apart… to prepare ourselves to build a new one. 17,000 people came together in the spirit of solidarity and hope, in the fight for peace, the climate and social justice. Take a look at the photos and some of the weekend’s highlights.

Raoul Hedebouw's speech during the main event of ManiFiesta 2026.

Restructuring, layoffs, factory closures: the European automotive industry is faltering and shifting its focus to the defence sector. It prioritises profits for its shareholders, the tech crisis, and war, even though prosperity and peace are possible.

Closing speech by Peter Mertens, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Belgium (PVDA-PTB), at the International Anti-War Conference, London, 20 June 2026.