On Friday, an estimated 30,000 people flooded the streets of Brussels to protest the Belgian government’s recent budget‑tightening measures and the rising cost of living. The demonstration was organized by the country’s two largest labor unions, which also called for a national strike and a public‑sector walkout on Monday.

Clashes and police response

While the majority of protesters marched peacefully in red and green, a smaller group of young demonstrators dressed in black and wearing masks threw rocks and firecrackers at officers near the central Brussels railway station. Police responded with tear‑gas canisters and water cannons, dispersing the crowds and causing traffic disruptions throughout the capital.

Union leaders distance themselves from violence

Union officials emphasized that the unrest was not linked to the organized anti‑austerity march, stating that the individuals responsible for the confrontations were not affiliated with the unions’ movement.

Personal stories highlight cost‑of‑living concerns

Marie Gobert, a single mother and social worker who traveled from Namur to join the protest, said she “cannot make ends meet” as school fees, public transport and train tickets become increasingly unaffordable. She added, “You can feel the social tension, you can feel anger starting to simmer everywhere. The education system is being dismantled, and when young people want to speak out, no one listens to them.”

Background on austerity measures

This summer, the French‑language community government in Belgium raised standard university tuition by roughly 43%, from €835 to €1,194, as part of a broader austerity program. Earlier in June, protests in Brussels over the tuition hike turned violent, and this week students in Liège faced mass arrests, with local media reporting 107 arrests.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.