Belgium: Unions Fight Austerity Policies

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/16/world/europe/belgium-unions-fight-austerity-policies.html

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A general strike paralyzed air and rail traffic in Belgium and idled scores of companies across the country on Monday as trade unions capped a month of labor action against government austerity policies. The strikers were angered by measures taken by the nation’s business-friendly government to cut into employees’ income, extend working time and restrict social services. They were also protesting the lack of additional capital gains taxes. The strike had an immediate international impact because Brussels Airport, a busy hub with connections throughout Europe and beyond, had no traffic whatsoever. The high-speed rail links serving London and France and the Netherlands were also halted for the day. The series of labor actions, the toughest in years, started last month with a demonstration that drew about 120,000 protesters.