Clashes rock Brussels as 30,000 march against austerity

On October 9 and into October 10, 2026, roughly 30,000 trade unionists, students and civil-society members marched through Brussels against the Belgian federal government's planned austerity package. Organized by Belgium's main unions, the demonstration targeted proposals they said would hit workers, pensioners and low-income households, including possible changes to automatic wage indexation, higher VAT and other revenue measures. Students joined to protest education cuts and rising university fees. The march began peacefully with music, dancing and placards, but turned violent near Brussels-Midi railway station, where some protesters hurled fireworks, stones and gas canisters at riot police. Officers responded with water cannon and tear gas. Initial reports said 21 people were detained, including 13 minors, but the figure rose above 100 by Friday evening, with around 30 judicial arrests and 80 administrative detentions. Euronews, Africanews and Fox News carried the clashes. The protest adds to a wave of anti-austerity anger across Europe as governments brace populations for leaner budgets amid pressure from Brussels and bond markets.