Large mobilization in Belgium against the government's social austerity plans
On February 3, 2025, the 'Arizona' government was sworn in. Since then, it has been trying by all means to make everyone work longer, for less money, among other austerity measures.
But it is facing sustained resistance. The social movement is holding firm against the intensified attacks of the De Wever-Bouchez government. With, this May 12, already the 15th national mobilization.
75,000 people filled the streets of Brussels: public and private sector workers, metalworkers, healthcare workers, teachers, public service employees, charity workers, cultural sector workers, youth, feminist, democratic, and peace movements.
One thing is clear: the government's social austerity plans are still not getting through.
Fabio, metalworker: "In our industry, there are people who, at 60, are already exhausted. So 67 years… it's not possible. We've been mobilizing for 18 months and we've already made the government back down several times. So we're not giving up anything."
Juliette, public service worker: "They promised 500 euros more in purchasing power. We haven't seen it. On the other hand, we see prices rising: fuel, groceries, everything is becoming more expensive. Everything is increasing except our wages. And meanwhile, they are spending billions on war. This is not the right model."
Patrick, healthcare worker: "I work in a retirement home. It's a difficult job. My back knows it, my shoulders know it, my knees know it. The only ones who don't seem to realize it are the ministers. We cannot accept these attacks on our pensions. And we will come back as many times as necessary."
Claire, teacher: "When I hear that there's never any money for education, to lighten our workload, but that there is money for wars that are not ours, it revolts me"
Over the last 18 months, this popular dyke has already pushed the government back. On at least eight occasions, it has had to modify its plans, limit its attacks, or take a step back. What is being challenged today is not just one measure or another. It is the entire Arizona project: a model where the rights of the working class are sacrificed to give gifts to the ultra-rich and free up ever more billions for war.
Against this model, we oppose another choice: social justice, respect for work, solidarity, and peace.
Next meeting: June 14 in Brussels, for the European march for ‘Welfare, not warfare’.
