ISTANBUL 

Belgium is bracing for near paralysis as a three-day strike called by unions kicked off on Monday, affecting public transport and services across many sectors.

Public transport will be suspended on Monday, with public services joining the strike on Tuesday, and the actions will culminate in a nationwide, cross-sector strike on Wednesday, according to the daily La Libre.

Railway workers, an independent train drivers’ group, and the country’s three public transport operators have all voiced their intention to participate in the three-day strike.

Brussels Airport will see no departing flights on Wednesday, with some arrivals also affected, while Charleroi Airport is expecting a similar scenario as it halts both departures and arrivals.

Teachers, public service in the Walloon region, local and provincial administrations, and the health sector will also join the three-day strike, with police officers protesting working conditions and retirement benefits.

Garbage collection in Brussels and Wallonia will also be disrupted from Monday to Wednesday.

Trade unions such as FGTB, CSC, and CGSLB have called for a strike, urging the government coalition to implement greater tax fairness, a review of corporate subsidies, and ensure all salaries are subject to social security contributions.

They also criticized pension reforms and changes to employment status in several professions.