By Melike Pala
BRUSSELS (AA) - Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Brussels on Thursday to denounce austerity measures and reforms introduced by the Belgian federal government, disrupting services across the capital.
The demonstration, organized by multiple trade unions, follows three days of railway disruptions caused by a rail sector strike.
Demonstrators gathered near Brussels-North Station around 10 a.m. local time (0900 GMT), marching toward Brussels-Midi Station from 11 a.m.
Protesters called for job security, better working conditions, increased room for labor negotiations and improved pension schemes.
Major disruptions were reported in public transport and air travel due to the demonstration.
No passenger flights departed from Brussels Airport, where approximately 42,500 travelers were affected, while Brussels South Charleroi Airport came to a complete standstill.
Education unions also participated in the national day of action, disrupting classes. Other services, including waste collection, recycling centers and childcare, were also affected.
Leaders from the Socialist Party (PS) and the Workers' Party of Belgium (PTB) joined the protest.
A confrontation occurred near the US Embassy Brussels at Kunst-Wet, where police used tear gas to disperse a group of 'far-left, anti-fascist activists,' according to broadcaster VRT. The protesters were later pushed back and continued marching.
Police reported 80,000 participants in the demonstration, while the union ABVV had earlier estimated 100,000.
Authorities said around 50 people were administratively detained during the protest to maintain order.
