Student Protests Spread from France to Belgium Sparking Brussels Clashes

Student protests that originated in France have now spread to Belgium, as French-speaking demonstrators took to the streets in Brussels on Friday to protest severe budget cuts in education. Police reported that an unprecedented 30,000 protesters gathered near the central station of Brussels, located between the European Parliament and the national legislative building.

Clashes and Trade Union Involvement

Hundreds of masked rioters clashed with security forces, hurling bricks, glass bottles, fences, and street signs at police officers. Some protesters were also seen throwing stun grenades and smoke bombs. The students joined forces with trade unions demanding that the government increase taxes on high-income earners instead of implementing cuts in education and healthcare.

The situation is getting worse, and people have had enough. Like teachers, students see that conditions are deteriorating, a union representative stated.

Nationwide Disruptions and Flight Cancellations

Many parts of the country experienced major disruptions. Brussels Airport was forced to cancel around 140 flights after ground handling and baggage service workers went on strike. Meanwhile, in France, where similar unrest shook various cities for days, most students returned to classrooms on Friday following government promises to address teacher shortages and school funding issues.