Historic times: The Netherlands feels broken. France is literally on fire. Belgian politics feels increasingly dysfunctional too.

France faces a political crisis after its worst street violence in years

French authorities reported more than 2,000 arrests after protests spread across multiple cities. A historic town hall in Limoges was burned, shops were looted, and public buildings were attacked. The government faced criticism over its handling of the unrest, while peaceful demonstrators continued to demand better public services and relief from rising living costs.

Belgium’s nationwide strike disrupts transport, schools and public services

Belgian unions staged a second day of nationwide strike action against planned budget cuts. Rail services, public transport, schools and public broadcasting were affected as Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s coalition struggled to reach a federal budget agreement.

Dutch farmers set fires during protests against government budget plans

Farmers burned hay bales and tires near highways, disrupting traffic on the government’s budget day. Authorities also found pipes attached to railway tracks at more than 20 locations. The protests reflected anger over government spending priorities and pressure on farmers’ livelihoods.

Dutch public transport halted by a nationwide strike over welfare cuts

Almost no trains, buses or ferries operated during a 24-hour strike against proposed cuts of up to €6.5 billion in annual welfare spending. The minority government faced difficulty securing parliamentary support for its plans to redirect spending toward defence.

Tens of thousands protest in Brussels against Belgium’s austerity plans

Police estimated that 30,000 people attended the Brussels demonstration, while unions put the figure at 50,000. Protesters opposed pension and unemployment reforms, public-sector cuts and proposals to raise VAT as the government tried to address public debt approaching 110% of GDP.

Got a news tip or correction? Let us know

If you got something out of this, please chip in to keep this site running, or subscribe to go ad-free.

1 view