Belgium is preparing for a general strike on April 29, 2025. This event promises to disrupt the work of many sectors, including public transport, government agencies and some services. The strike affects various sectoral organizations and its consequences may affect both local residents and tourists who plan to visit the country during this period.
The situation before the strike
The strike, called by the main trade unions of Belgium, is aimed at improving working conditions and raising wages. Workers of railways, bus and tram services, as well as civil servants, have expressed their protest against increasing demands and insufficient reforms in the social sphere. In this regard, a significant amount of inconvenience for citizens and visitors to the country is expected on the day of the strike.
How will this affect transport?
The transport sector will be particularly hard hit. Rail, bus and tram workers are expected to join the strike, causing widespread delays and cancellations. Here’s what to expect:
- Rail transport (SNCB): The railway workers’ strike will begin on 28 April at 22:00 and will last until 29 April until 22:00. Travel within Belgium will be significantly affected and almost all services will be cancelled or diverted.
- Buses (De Lijn, TEC). Bus workers will also join the strike. This will hinder transport connections within cities, as well as intercity travel.
- Trams (STIB and others): In the capital, Brussels, trams will be cancelled for most of the day. Local authorities have issued advance warnings about possible delays and outages.
Security measures
The Belgian authorities are calling for calm and adherence to recommendations, especially for those planning to travel within the country. Government institutions and services will operate with restrictions, which will also affect access to various government services and documents.
Situation for tourists
Tourists planning to visit Belgium on the day of the strike should be aware that significant disruptions to public transport could make it difficult to get around the city. Delays at key hubs such as airports and train stations are also possible. The Belgian Foreign Ministry and other authorities have already warned of possible inconveniences and advised to review routes and departure times.
Recommendations
If you are planning a trip to Belgium on April 29, here are some useful tips:
- Check transport schedules. Regularly check the official websites of railways and bus companies for updates.
- Alternative routes: Use alternative modes of transportation, such as taxis or rental cars, if possible.
- Book in advance. For tourists planning to visit popular attractions, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.