Police clash with protesters in Brussels as thousands march against spending cuts; more than 100 detained
Thousands joined a trade-union march in Brussels, Belgium's capital, on Friday against the government's proposed savings package. Clashes with police broke out on the sidelines, and the number of detainees rose above 100.
Thousands of people took part in a trade-union march in Brussels, the capital of Belgium, on Friday to protest against the government's proposed savings package. Later, clashes broke out between some protesters and police near Brussels-Midi railway station. By Friday evening, more than 100 people had been detained.
What the protest is about
The unions fear the savings package will hit workers, pensioners and low-income households. They oppose possible changes to wage indexation and value-added tax (VAT), along with other measures affecting purchasing power, and argue that wealthier people should contribute more. Students also joined the march to protest against education cuts, rising fees and reforms they fear could make university less affordable.
The clashes
The demonstration began peacefully, with crowds carrying placards, playing music and dancing through the city. Later, near Brussels-Midi station, some protesters threw objects and fireworks at police. Officers responded with water cannon and tear gas, and some demonstrators threw gas canisters back. Police brought in additional units equipped with tear gas launchers, supported by a helicopter. Further unrest was reported near Brussels-Central station.
Police said the clashes took place on the sidelines and were separate from the main trade-union march, which they said stayed peaceful.
Detentions
Police first reported 21 people detained, including 13 minors. By Friday evening the figure had risen to more than 100, with around 30 judicial arrests and 80 administrative detentions. No confirmed casualty figures were available, despite the clashes, fires and property damage.
