Several airports in Brussels, including Zaventem and Charleroi, are facing disruptions as a strike by security, cleaning, and hospitality staff has led to the cancellation of numerous flights. The strike, organized by European trade unions, is in protest of poor working conditions and inadequate wages. This has resulted in the cancellation of departing flights from Brussels Zaventem airport and will impact approximately 42,000 passengers. The deficit of security staff has raised concerns about ensuring safe operations at these major transport hubs.
The demonstration is set to take place outside the Charleroi airport, with workers calling for improved working conditions, fair wages, and better facilities for staff. Belgium’s largest trade union, the Confederation of Christian Trade Unions, is leading the protest to address issues such as high workloads and inappropriate working temperatures. Additionally, the protest aims to draw attention to the EU’s public procurement rules that are believed to exacerbate harmful working conditions across the bloc. Workers from various European countries will join the protest in Brussels to voice their concerns and demand changes to the procurement process.
The strike has garnered support from over 100 experts who have signed a letter endorsing the workers’ efforts to ensure fair labor standards and strengthen collective bargaining. The letter highlights the need for revisions to the EU’s procurement guidelines to prioritize labor rights and fair working conditions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced plans to revise these guidelines in her upcoming mandate, but the Commission has not publicly commented on the ongoing strike. The protesters are calling for an end to the “race to the bottom” that current procurement practices contribute to.
Passengers traveling to and from Brussels airports are advised to check for updates on their flights as the strike continues to affect operations. The demonstration is a significant display of solidarity among European workers who are demanding better treatment and fair compensation for their contributions to the aviation industry. The protests highlight the importance of supporting essential workers and ensuring that labor standards are upheld in outsourced services. As the strike unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the collective power of workers to advocate for their rights and bring about positive change in their working conditions.
