Widespread strikes in Belgium threaten train and public transport services at the end of January
Belgium is preparing for significant social unrest during the week of January 26–30, following unions’ announcement of a series of strikes affecting the TEC and SNCB public transport networks, amid rising disputes between workers and authorities over government reforms impacting working conditions.
The National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB) confirmed a plan for a five-day strike involving all employee categories, starting the evening of January 25 until January 30, with expectations of disruptions to train services across the country.
Union sources explained that the strike will be implemented in rotation according to professional categories, with the company providing limited essential services during the action, and detailed schedules to be announced two days before the strike, amid ongoing consultations between management and unions.
Workers’ demands mainly focus on concerns over a new government bill aiming to end permanent appointments at SNCB and Infrabel starting June, which unions describe as a threat to job security.
The social unrest is not limited to the railway sector, as unions also announced protest actions at Wallonia’s public transport company TEC, opposing cost-cutting measures proposed by the regional government through OTW, including the removal of allowances and increasing working hours.
Despite reconciliation meetings, unions considered the outcomes unsatisfactory, prompting the General Confederation of Liberal Trade Unions of Belgium (CGSLB) to announce strikes during the same week, warning of escalation if solutions satisfying workers are not reached.
Workers’ representatives emphasized that dialogue remains open with authorities, but stressed that their protest options could expand if government policies continue without adjustment.
Quick reader summary
Belgium is preparing for significant social unrest during the week of January 26–30, following unions’ announcement of a series of strikes affecting the TEC and SNCB public transport networks, amid rising disputes between workers and authorities over government reforms impacting working conditions. This update matters to travellers with European short-haul flights, connecting trips or pending bookings because it may affect planning, travel, public-service use or the next practical step a reader should take.
Why this update matters
The value of this story is not only the headline. Readers need to know who may be affected, whether the measure is final or still developing, and where to check the official version before acting on it.
What to do now
- Open your booking through the airline’s official website or app rather than relying only on social media posts.
- Check the email linked to your reservation for rebooking, refund or alternative-flight options.
- If you have a connecting itinerary, review the full journey and not only the cancelled or changed segment.
Official sources to check
- Lufthansa official website and flight status
- The airport or airline used for the booking
Frequently asked questions
Does this mean the measure is already in force?
Not always. Some stories report a measure already being applied, while others describe a proposal, transition period or expected change. Always check the implementation date in the official source.
Can I rely on this article alone for a legal, travel or financial decision?
No. This article is intended to explain the news context and practical implications, but it does not replace official guidance or qualified professional advice when the issue affects your legal status, booking or finances.
Editorial note: This update was editorially reviewed on July 11, 2026, with practical verification points added to help readers check the official source before taking action.
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