Tens of thousands of people demonstrated in the Belgian capital, urging the government to scrap its austerity measures
Authorities in Brussels deployed tear gas and water cannons to break up extensive demonstrations opposing proposed government reductions in social welfare.
The three largest unions in Belgium organized the protest and initiated a general strike on Tuesday, objecting to Prime Minister Bart de Wever’s suggested policies to increase the retirement age and reduce social provisions.
Organizers of the protest reported to local media that as many as 120,000 individuals participated, whereas police put the figure at 80,000.
Visuals from the protest depict demonstrators confronting law enforcement, deploying fireworks, and displaying flags and signs.
Officers equipped in full riot gear were observed discharging tear gas canisters and employing water cannons against the assembled individuals.
Gert Truyens, president of the CGSLB union, stated that the demonstration was prematurely ended following confrontations between a violent minority of protesters and the police, as reported by HLN.
”These are not protesters, but individuals acting wildly,” the newspaper quoted him.
Throughout the day, the widespread strike severely impacted public transportation and halted departures at Brussels’ main airport.
De Wever, elected in February, has put forward austerity policies aimed at addressing the nation’s expanding budget shortfall.